Starting vs closing
A lot of it is mental toughness and personalities.
A few years ago, while coaching JV teams i always tried to develop 2 pitchers each year. I would try to go 4/3 innings between the 2. I’d start one for one game and the other for the next. In a game where one was really on, i would let them continue as long as they were effective. By the end of the season the innings usually evened out.
This goes well if you have players & parents that are team players. Out of the 10 years I did this, only one year was a problem. Parents of one player thought I was costing her a “scholarship” by not letting her pitch full games every game. AD, principal, and actual school board backed me. That’s how far the parents pushed it.
Girl transferred after freshman year to private school for more exposure. Ironic part is she didn’t even play as a senior.
Parents, be careful of what you wish for. Let your kids enjoy the game and they will be successful. Maybe not the star, but they will have lasting memories of playing for a team.
4 Replies
3mo
College coaches pay almost no attention to school ball. In fact, and sadly IMO, some elite players no longer even play for their school teams. School ball is primarily a social experience for D1 prospects, little more.
(In response to this post by 1980VT)
3mo
My daughter played both at a high level. School ball builds excitement and spirit in the community and surrounding region. Travel ball is great at player development, but nobody cares who wins and the tournaments are a money racket.
(In response to this post by MidloHokie)
3mo
. . . parents who think it's a good idea to spend thousands on 8U and 10U travel ball. Think how many reps little Ashton or Amanda could get at a field near the house while her TB counterpart is standing in LF all weekend watching her pitcher walk batters! Of course, this would mean dad or mom would have to get up off their a$$ and do something ;)
** Edited by MidloHokie at 4/4/2026, 10:26:09 AM
** Edited by MidloHokie at 4/4/2026, 10:27:35 AM
(In response to this post by GCHokieof91)
3mo
to how good a child gets is how much instruction and practice that child gets at home. Of course, this can be a double edged sword, but a good balance of practice and fun at home is key.
(In response to this post by MidloHokie)