I recently participated in the...

• Xpert Summit Pitching Debate

...discussing a number of topics...

• Chris O'Leary Debates Pitching (REPLAY)

The topics I addressed included...

• Hooking the Rubber (PDF)
• Lead Leg Stability (PDF)
• Stride Length (PDF)

One important topic that came up was...

• Back Foot & Heel in Pitchers (PDF)

Because this is an important -- and emerging topic -- I've decided to discuss it at some length.

Back Foot & Heel in Pitching

The role of the back foot and heel in baseball pitching mechanics is debated.

Which is weird, because it's easy to see what the best pitchers did and do.

Actually.

But, to do so, you have to use still photos.

So, here's your TRIGGER WARNING!!! ;-)

The thing I'm focused on is the position of Sandy Koufax and Nolan Ryan's back foot.

Notice how, rather than being flat on the ground, the heels of their back feet are up in the air.

That is important because it allows their hips to rotate freely.