As a high school lefty pitcher, the off-season used to feel like a waiting game. But this past winter, I decided to turn that waiting into working. My goal? To step onto the mound this summer with a stronger, more refined arsenal. And to help me get there, I had the incredible opportunity to train with Quinn Waterhouse, a professional left-handed pitcher currently making his mark in the Pioneer League.

Working with Quinn was a game-changer. His insights, experience, and the way he broke down complex pitching mechanics made a huge difference. We focused on three key areas this winter, and I’m excited to share my progress with all of you.

Goal 1: Unleashing the Heat – Improving Velocity

Every pitcher dreams of throwing harder, and I’m no exception. This was a major focus of my winter training with Quinn. We didn’t just throw; we analyzed my mechanics, identified inefficiencies, and implemented drills designed to maximize my force generation. We focused on:

• Leg Drive and Hip Rotation: Quinn really emphasized using my lower half to generate power. We worked on drills that improved my ability to drive off the rubber and efficiently rotate my hips, translating that energy directly into the ball.
• Arm Path and Layback: We fine-tuned my arm path to ensure it was efficient and healthy, focusing on proper layback to get maximum whip on the ball without putting undue stress on my arm.
• Plyometrics and Strength Training: Beyond just pitching, I incorporated a dedicated strength and conditioning program. This included plyometric exercises to improve explosive power and a lifting regimen tailored to support pitching mechanics and overall arm health.

The results are already showing! I ended last season consistently throwing 81-82 MPH, and I’m excited to say I’m now starting this season hitting 84-85 MPH on the radar gun. It feels incredible to see the hard work pay off.

Goal 2: Finding the Zone – Reducing Walks

Walks are a pitcher’s worst enemy. Last season, I knew I needed to improve my command and reduce the free passes. Quinn helped me approach this not just as a mechanical issue, but also a mental one. Our work focused on:

• Targeting and Visualization Drills: We spent a lot of time on drills that forced me to hit precise targets, even with limited space. This wasn’t just about throwing strikes, but about developing a consistent release point and repeatable delivery.
• Pre-Pitch Routine and Focus: Quinn emphasized the importance of a consistent pre-pitch routine to help me clear my mind and focus on the task at hand. We worked on breathing techniques and visualization to ensure I was locked in before every pitch.
• Understanding My Delivery: By breaking down my delivery frame by frame, we identified subtle inconsistencies that were leading to misses. We worked on drills to smooth out those kinks and create a more repeatable and accurate motion.

I’m seeing a dramatic improvement here, too. During our spring league, I issued 2 walks in 11 innings pitched, a step forward in my control. I already feel more confident in my ability to hit my spots, and I’m excited to attack hitters more aggressively this season.

Goal 3: The Breaking Ball Blueprint – Developing My Changeup

As a lefty, having a reliable off-speed pitch is crucial. I’ve tinkered with my changeup, and this winter, Quinn helped me make significant strides in developing it into a true weapon.

• Grip and Feel: We experimented with different grips, focusing on what felt most natural and allowed for consistent movement. Quinn showed me how to “feel” the pitch come off my fingertips to maximize spin and deception.
• Arm Speed Consistency: A common mistake with off-speed pitches is slowing down the arm, tipping the pitch to the hitter. We drilled maintaining the same arm speed as my fastball, making the off-speed pitch a true surprise.
• Understanding Pitch Movement: Quinn helped me understand why a changeup fades. This knowledge allowed me to make micro-adjustments and better visualize the pitch’s trajectory.

The hard work on my changeup has paid off! I’m consistently getting much more downward and outward tail movement late in the pitch, making it a deceptive offering to right-handed hitters especially. I’m starting to get a much better feel for the shape and break of my changeup, and I can’t wait to unleash it on opposing hitters!

---

More Than Just a Coach: The Quinn Waterhouse Factor

Beyond the specific drills and goals, working with Quinn was a truly fantastic experience because of our connection. Our personalities meshed really well, making every session productive and enjoyable. As fellow left-handed pitchers, we could dive deep into the nuances of pitching. We’d talk about those specific muscle movements and subtle feelings that only another lefty on the mound can truly understand, which was incredibly valuable.

Quinn also showed me the power of collaboration in baseball. He brought in teammates and even his former college coaches to offer different perspectives and insights, creating a truly comprehensive training environment. This collaborative approach, combined with Quinn’s dedicated coaching, made me a better pitcher.

I wish Quinn all the best on his professional baseball journey. He’s a true professional, and I’m incredibly grateful for his guidance. If he ever finds his way back to Iowa for the winter, I’d love to continue working with him and keep building on this progress.

---

Looking Ahead

This winter with Quinn Waterhouse has been an invaluable experience. I feel stronger, more accurate, and more confident than ever before.

The hard work doesn’t stop here, but I’m ready to take everything I learned and apply it on the mound this season. Wish me luck, and I’ll keep you updated on my progress!