Pitching is an important skill in baseball. Knowing how to pitch can be the difference between winning and losing. But one of the biggest challenges for a pitcher is to make sure he isn’t tipping his pitches. It is important for a pitcher to conceal his pitches from the opposing team so they can’t anticipate what pitch is coming. Unfortunately, Houston Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. has been accused of tipping his pitches during the 2017 World Series, and he has been dealing with the fallout ever since.
What is Tipping Pitches?
Tipping pitches is when a pitcher unknowingly gives away his pitch selection before he throws it. This can be done through subtle body movements, such as a change in stance or a quick glance towards the catcher. It can also be done through a pitcher’s grip on the ball or the shape of the seams when he holds it. Even the way a pitcher stands on the mound can be a giveaway to what pitch he is about to throw.
How Did McCullers Tip His Pitches?
McCullers has been accused of tipping his pitches in several different ways. It has been reported that he was making subtle changes in his body language before each pitch, such as adjusting his glove or stepping slightly to the side. He was also accused of changing the grip on his pitches, which could be seen by the opposing team. Finally, it has been reported that McCullers was giving away his pitch selection by the way he was holding the ball, specifically the shape of the seams when he was gripping it.
The Impact of Tipping Pitches
When a pitcher tips his pitches, it gives the opposing team a huge advantage. They can anticipate what pitch is coming and adjust their swing accordingly. This can result in more hits and runs for the opposing team, which can be devastating for a pitcher and his team.
McCullers’ Response to the Allegations
When McCullers was accused of tipping his pitches, he was quick to deny the allegations. He argued that he had not done anything differently in the World Series than he had done all season. He also claimed that the grip on his pitches was the same as it had been all year.
The Aftermath
Since the allegations first surfaced, McCullers has been trying to prove that he was not tipping his pitches. He has worked with pitching coaches to find ways to conceal his pitches better, and he has worked on his body language to make sure he is not giving away any clues as to what pitch is coming. He has also been working on his grip to make sure it is not a giveaway to the opposing team.
Conclusion
Tipping pitches can be a huge advantage for the opposing team, and it can be devastating for a pitcher and his team. Lance McCullers Jr. has been accused of tipping his pitches in the 2017 World Series, and he has been trying to prove his innocence ever since. He has been working with pitching coaches to find ways to conceal his pitches better, and he has been working on his body language and his grip. Only time will tell if he has been successful in his efforts.