|
| | Life Lesson #8: Body Language
BODY LANGUAGE
Body language refers to the image that a pitcher projects through his actions, gestures, and posture while on the mound. It is normal for a pitcher to display the thoughts and feelings inside their head, and we call this display Body Language. Examples of poor body language include hanging your head, slumping your shoulders, or snapping the glove downward when catching a throw from the catcher or an infielder, and all indicate to teammates and opposition that you are caving or giving in.
Often times, pitchers are not aware of what type of body language they are giving off. In the battles of competition, it is very important to display positive body language and appear as if the pressures and stresses of the game are not affecting you. Opposing hitters are like sharks, searching for the smell of blood so that they may swoop in for the kill. They smell this blood when they see you react negatively to an umpires call on a close miss, or when you look to the bullpen to see who is warming up during a team's rally. On the other hand, your teammates (some of whom may be getting down themselves) need to see a consistently cool and calm competitor on the mound. The language that your body speaks can either tell the sharks to sharpen their teeth for a meal, or show your teammates that you have the situation under control, to remain positive and aggressive.
It's very easy to project an image of strength and confidence during success. However, the true test of positive body language occurs when you are struggling with your command, battling with a poor umpire, or have given up a number of hits - when things are not going your way! At this time, opposing teams and hitters are looking for signs that you are giving in. They are looking for something to build their confidence, and gain momentum. Therefore, it becomes much more difficult, as well as important, to project positive body language. This is a pitcher's true body language test, and when their movements and postures must be firm and strong looking.
In competition, we want to show the hitter that we are eager to throw the next pitch and attack. Be aware of your actions and what signals you are giving off. Show your teammates that you are not caving in when you give up a home run or when an infielder makes an error. Keep your appearance consistent and strong, keep your head high, and avoid any whining or shoulder shrugs. Maintain the image of a warrior, and it will assist you to perform like that warrior! |
