Bryce Bryant

Outfield - Glove to Release:

Bryce, your performance at the HBCU/NAIA Fall Evaluation Camp demonstrated your developing skills in the outfield, particularly with your glove-to-release mechanics. Your current velocity is clocked at 70 mph, which lays a solid groundwork for your defensive capabilities. This speed indicates that you have a good starting point for your throws from the outfield, but there is room for improvement to increase your effectiveness in gunning down runners or making quick relays.

To enhance your velocity and overall glove-to-release time, focus on streamlining your transition from catching the ball to preparing for a throw. This can be achieved by working on your footwork and ensuring that your body is aligned and balanced before you release the ball. Drills that emphasize quick, clean transfers and practicing with a focus on maintaining a low center of gravity during catches can help you gain momentum and add speed to your throws. Additionally, incorporating strength training, particularly for your shoulder and core, will contribute to increasing your arm strength over time.

Remember, consistent practice and attention to these details will not only improve your glove-to-release velocity but will also enhance your overall confidence and presence in the outfield. Keep pushing yourself to refine these skills, and you'll see marked improvements that will make you an even more formidable defender.

Pitching - Changeup:

Bryce, your pitching ability shows great promise, especially as you continue to refine your changeup. At this stage, focusing on enhancing the run and break of your changeup will elevate your game to the next level. The movement of a changeup is crucial for keeping hitters off balance, and by developing more lateral run or vertical drop, you can make this pitch a significant weapon in your arsenal. Consider experimenting with different grips or subtle finger pressure adjustments to find a comfortable and effective way to increase the pitch's movement. Watching video footage of successful pitchers who excel at changeups can also provide valuable insights and techniques that you can incorporate into your style.

Additionally, while working on the movement of your changeup, it's important to ensure you are finishing your pitches with your entire body. A consistent, fluid follow-through not only aids in the pitch's deception but also helps maintain your arm health by distributing the force of the pitch through your entire body. Focus on using your lower body to drive through your pitches, ensuring that your delivery is smooth and unforced. Drills that emphasize core and leg strength, such as medicine ball throws or band resistance exercises, can significantly enhance your ability to finish each pitch effectively.

Remember, progress takes time and practice, so be patient with yourself as you work on these areas. Keep pushing yourself at events like the HBCU/NAIA Fall Evaluation Camp and beyond to incorporate these adjustments into your routine. With dedication and attention to these details, you're well on your way to becoming a more competitive and versatile pitcher. Keep up the great work, and don't hesitate to reach out for further guidance or feedback as you continue to develop your skills.

Pitching - Curveball:

Bryce, your curveball shows impressive potential with a well-defined break that can effectively disrupt hitters' timing. This is a valuable asset in your pitching repertoire, demonstrating your ability to manipulate the ball and create movement that challenges batters. The break on your curveball is already a strong foundation, and with some refinements, it can become a powerful weapon in your arsenal.

To enhance your curveball further, focusing on finishing your throw with your upper body will be key. Completing your motion will not only improve the consistency of your curveball's break but also help maintain velocity and accuracy. Consider incorporating drills that emphasize follow-through and ensure that your shoulders and torso are fully engaged in your pitching mechanics. This will help you maintain better control and command of your curveball, making it even more effective in game situations.

Keep in mind that developing a strong finish to your throw will also reduce the risk of injury, as it promotes a fluid and natural motion. As you continue to refine this aspect of your pitching, explore exercises that strengthen your core and upper body, enhancing your overall delivery. With dedication and focus on these details, you are well on your way to becoming a more complete and formidable pitcher. Keep up the great work, and continue to build on your natural talent and dedication to the game.

**Pitching - Fastball:**

Bryce, your pitching mechanics demonstrate strong arm action, which serves as a solid foundation for your fastball. This indicates an efficient transfer of energy from your body to your arm, allowing you to generate impressive velocity. Your ability to maintain consistent arm speed is commendable and sets you up well as a pitcher. However, to elevate your performance further, focusing on flexibility will be crucial. Enhancing your flexibility can lead to a greater range of motion, not just in your arm, but throughout your body, which will contribute to better mechanics and potentially increase your pitch velocity.

To address this, consider integrating a dynamic stretching routine into your daily practice regimen. Exercises such as shoulder and arm circles, torso rotations, and leg swings can improve your flexibility over time. Additionally, incorporating yoga or pilates once or twice a week can complement your training by enhancing overall body flexibility and strength. By increasing your flexibility, you'll likely notice an improvement in your ability to consistently hit your target, as well as a reduction in the risk of injury.

With your solid arm action as a strong base, improving your flexibility will not only enhance your current pitching performance but also contribute to your long-term development as a player. Keep up the hard work, and continue to refine your skills with these targeted exercises. Your dedication to these adjustments will undoubtedly pay off in your future pitching endeavors.

Pitching - Split:

Bryce, your split-finger fastball is shaping up to be a standout pitch in your arsenal. At 16, the ability to effectively throw a pitch like the splitter is impressive and sets a strong foundation for your pitching career. The velocity at 70 MPH is commendable, and with further refinement, it could become a critical weapon for you on the mound. Your natural feel for this pitch is evident, and it's encouraging to see how it complements your overall pitching style.

To enhance the effectiveness of your splitter, focusing on consistently finishing your throw will be key. By ensuring a complete follow-through, you can maintain your pitch's velocity and movement while reducing the risk of arm fatigue. A full finish will also help improve your command, allowing you to better target low in the strike zone. Missing low, rather than high, is a strategy that will help keep hitters off balance and induce more ground balls, a valuable asset for any pitcher.

As you continue to develop, consider incorporating exercises that strengthen your core and lower body, as these areas are crucial for maintaining balance and generating power throughout your delivery. By refining these mechanics and maintaining your focus on finishing each pitch, you'll be well on your way to mastering the splitter and further enhancing your overall pitching performance. Keep up the great work, and continue to build on these promising skills!