The Tread Podcast

Why is command such a difficult, often-overlooked part of pitching development?

In this episode, Ben Brewster chats with Tread Athletics performance coaches Craig Stem and Turner Givens to unpack the layers of command training, from biomechanics to the mental game.

We cover:

• Why command is harder to quantify (and train) than velocity

• The difference between command vs. control

• Key metrics (walk %s, in-zone %, competitive location %, race to 2 strikes)

• Case studies of pros, college, and high school arms who transformed shaky command into consistency

• Common mistakes when blending velocity work with command training

• The mental side: pre-pitch routines, focal points, and handling pressure

• Practical drills (bridge pitches, variability training, nine-pocket work)

If you’re struggling to throw consistent strikes, this episode will give you a framework to identify your biggest command issues and actionable strategies to fix them.