What it is

Delivery Timing shows the times in milliseconds (1/1000 second) from set (the starting point of the pitcher’s motion) to important points in the delivery. The timing to the farthest point back in the pitcher’s motion is shown with the Backward Extension. The time from the set point to release is included with the Forward Extension measurement. Delivery Timing is available in pitchLogic Pro.

Why it matters

Delivery Timing is one indicator of consistency when pitching and is a measure of rhythm in getting to the release point. Pitchers should be able to achieve consistent readings for both Timing metrics when throwing the same way. Some pitchers may have a few different delivery patterns, such as stretch vs windup, or intentional rhythm changes designed to throw off a batter’s timing. It is expected and can be desirable for these deliberate changes to affect the Delivery Timing.

When throwing off-speed pitches, any differences in Delivery Timing from a fastball can telegraph what’s coming to a batter. Keeping the Delivery Timing as well as the Arm Slot consistent between pitch types can go a long way toward disguising your pitches.

When pitching with a runner on base, getting rid of the ball quickly can make it harder for a runner to steal a base. The Forward Extension/Release Timing is a direct indicator of this quickness.

Similarly, catchers often work on “quick feet” and getting to their release point quickly after catching the ball. Throwing pitchLogic from the squat position and using Delivery Timing can help refine a catcher’s throwing.

How to use it

When working on consistency, either within a pitch type or between fastballs and off-speed pitches, Delivery Timing can be a great way to identify an issue that needs work. The Video Recording and 3D Pitch Explorer are great tools to look at pitches in detail and identify the exact portion of the delivery where a pitcher is inconsistent. As you work on the issue, use Delivery Timing to monitor your progress from pitch to pitch.

When working on a quick delivery, either pitching from the stretch or as a catcher, try to reduce the overall Delivery Time (the Forward Extension Time). Shortening the arm path, increasing arm speed, or speeding up footwork can help reduce Delivery Time.

Delivery Time is found under the “Delivery” tab on the pitchLogic Pro app. On the iPad version of the app, this is located near the middle of the screen. On the phone version of the app, it is in the third group of tabs from the top of the screen. Backward Delivery Time may be left blank if the ball never moves backward from the set point.