Pitching and Pitchers Discussion Pitcher/Outfield play question for coaches/parents

[FastBat]

I have a question as a parent: How to approach a new/potential coach about PT for my P/OF player:

My dd pitcher, enjoys playing outfield as well as pitching, she is also fine with sitting the bench. She really enjoys fielding and not just pitching, pitching is great, don't get me wrong. She's committed to pitching and practices atleast 5 days/week in the off season. But, she loves outfield too! I really want to talk to new/potential coaches about this idea of pitching/outfield/sitting, but I think it may turn them off. How do I explain this to them, without them thinking I'm either, complaining or dictating? She is only 10u, and so young, I fear if the pitching doesn't pan out, then she will be left with no fielding skills. Plus, she loves outfield and it definitely suits her. I also understand that some weekends she will have to only pitch/sit due to illness or out of town players, that's fine too. Is it unusual to want to play both positions? Is this a bad idea to bring up to coaches? Should I just be satisfied with only pitching? Being a parent of a softball player, isn't easy, and I just want what's best for my kid!

 

[coachjwb]

No 10U player should only be a pitcher. Any 10U coach worth his or her salt would surely let their pitchers learn and play other positions. My daughter was always a pitcher, but played outfield as well from the time she played her first competitive softball, and she continued to pitch and play outfield through college as well. If you have a 10U coach who won't let their pitchers play other positions, you're on the wrong team.

 

[ThompsonUSSSA]

/\ /\ /\ what JWB said!

It's always better to answer: This is what I play best (ie Pitch)...but I can play (OF / X / X?)
Never want to say: I ONLY play ( X ?)...

 

[jdcii]

Most coaches will welcome players that are willing to play other positions or any position. I would also approach the coach with your expectations just like you did here. If both parties don't share expectations that will only lead to disappointment down the road.

 

[nonparentcoach]

I absolutely love pitchers/OF! If the pitching doesn't pan out? Don't worry about it. By the older ages, finding players that know how to track a ball in the outfield can be challenging to find. Develop those outfield skills!
My ideal roster consists of 2 main pitchers and 2 players that play corner infield or outfield as relief pitchers. One main catcher with 2 backups that play corner infield or corner outfield . SS, 2nd, centerfield never change with one all around utility. Im actually very close to filling this " dream roster " for the first time. Its been a long wait! Good luck!

 

[Fairman]

My dd played on a team that had a three pitcher rotation. So she pitched, then played an alternate position, then sat (rested) and then pitched again. She had a blast playing alternate fielding positions and hitting without the burden of pitching. The offshoot was that none of the pitchers burned out, they were fresh on Sundays and the team would finish the weekend looking ready for one more game.

At 10U I would run away from team that only lets the pitchers pitch. Your most dedicated players and perhaps you best athletes deserve to play.

 

[The3dm]

This is an ideal growth opportunity for you and your DD.

First of all, make sure that your DD is the one with concerns and not just you. Once everybody is on the same page, take this opportunity to discuss exactly what she wants out of the year. Formulate what SHE is going to say to the coach (you should be present to keep her focused and quell her nerves). A good coach always appreciates when their players are willing to approach them with issues. Of course follow the rules of when to talk with a coach and when not to, this will help with the message being taken in the manor it is intended. JMHO