Slider pitches are a major strike pitch, but it doesnt make sense to throw one every pitch. With slider pitches, pitch selection is everything. If you fall in love with your slider, batters will become accustomed to it. Youll find yourself walking batter after batter. The true test of a pitcher is not throwing ball after ball and hoping a batter will chase.
No, the true test of a pitchers mettle is when he says, Heres my best stuff, try and hit it. You cant be afraid of the strike zone. If a batter beats you, he beats you. Sometimes you make a perfect pitch with a lot of movement in the exact location you wanted and … the batter hits a double. These things happen–move on.
When to Use Slider Pitches
Slider pitches are a great two strike pitch. They arent such a great three ball pitch because a batter can lay off and then youll walk him. Remember, theres a lot of strike zone available besides the heart of the plate. You can throw low and inside and still nick the strike zone. So throw strikes, throw your best stuff. Dont fear the hitters–make them fear you.
This model is an advertisement for younger pitchers who want to try out a slider but are not developed enough yet. The slider is a powerful weapon, but it is only one pitch. There are many other ways to strike out a batter or make him ground into a double play. However, if youre ready, practice the slider. It can be devastating to hitters.
