Pitching yips
I started pitching earlier this year in 2 leagues: co-ed and women’s. After a bad first outing, in women’s, I really felt like I got into my groove. Was feeling really confident.
Randomly, in a not tight game where we were up 5, top 7, I was completely unable to throw a strike. Lost all control.
Fast forward to my co-ed game and practice during the week, I’m fine (granted co-ed uses a bigger ball and I find it easier to pitch). I even throw 3-4 buckets of balls before the women’s game, 10-12 strikes in a row.
Then game time, cannot get a strike for the first 3 batters and pull myself.
I’m so frustrated. I practiced again yesterday, same field, same balls. 50–60% strike. Not great. But better.
I am dreading my women’s game. Thinking about it way too much. It doesn’t help that the team is unsupportive, no encouragement at all. Quiet on the bench. No “shake it off”. Or “we know you got it”. Silence and annoyance is palpable..talking to each other. Not me. Which obviously adds stress.
Anyone have tips to break the funk.
EDIT: post practice update. I was getting a bit frustrated. But decided to see what would happen if I backed up like 1 foot and actually got right into a groove. I have always been scared for standing farther because I was worried about accuracy and distance. But it actually felt easier.