Windup vs. Stretch
Also known as: full windup, set position, pitching from the stretch
The windup and the stretch are the two legal pitching positions. The windup is mainly for empty bases and power; the shorter, quicker stretch helps hold runners.
The full windup allows the pitcher to use a bigger leg lift and a longer, more rhythmic delivery. That generates maximum momentum toward the plate, since there is no runner to hold. It usually starts with both feet on the rubber, the pivot foot turning parallel before the leg lift begins. The stretch position is a shortened, quicker version used almost exclusively with a runner on base. The pitcher starts with feet already set toward the plate and comes to a required, discernible pause in a set position. The pitcher then delivers with a smaller, faster leg lift to reduce the time a runner has to steal.
Many pitchers throw slightly harder from the windup than the stretch simply because the longer, rhythmic delivery generates more momentum. That is one reason some choose to pitch exclusively from the stretch, even with the bases empty. They sacrifice a little velocity for a single, simplified delivery to repeat reliably. The choice of which position to use with the bases empty is a pitcher's preference. With any runner on base, using the stretch (or a quick, compliant modified windup) is standard practice to hold runners.
Example
With the bases empty he used his full windup for extra velocity. But the moment a runner reached first he shifted to the stretch to shorten his time to the plate.
Why it matters
Comparing a pitcher's mechanics from the windup and the stretch shows whether the shortened delivery is costing meaningful velocity or command. That matters for pitchers who face runners on base often.
How it shows up on video
On video, the windup shows a larger leg lift and a visible rocking or pivoting sequence before the delivery begins. The stretch shows a compact, direct move to the plate from an already-set position with a clearly visible pause before the leg lift.
Common mistakes
- Rushing the required stop in the set position, which risks a balk call and often costs the pitcher balance and lower-half power
- Developing a stretch delivery so different from the windup that velocity or command drops noticeably with runners on base
- Failing to vary time to the plate from the stretch, giving base stealers a predictable, easy-to-time delivery
In SwingVantage Motion Lab
Motion Lab reads each delivery from pose, including your leg lift and stride. It does not compare windup and stretch reps for you, so film one of each from the same spot and compare them.
Frequently asked questions
Can a pitcher use the stretch with the bases empty?
Yes — using the stretch at all times is a common approach for pitchers who want one simplified, repeatable delivery rather than switching mechanics based on the base state.
Why is there a required pause in the stretch position?
The rules require a discernible stop to prevent the pitcher from using a continuous, deceptive motion to disadvantage a baserunner — skipping the pause is a balk with runners on base.
Related terms
- Pickoff MoveA pickoff move is a pitcher's legal throw (or step) toward a base with a runner on. It is aimed at catching that runner off the bag before a pitch is thrown.
- BalkA balk is an illegal or deceptive motion by the pitcher with runners on base. Every runner is immediately awarded one base, and no pitch needs to be thrown.
- Lead Off BaseA lead off base is the distance a baserunner takes from the bag before the pitch — maximising lead distance reduces the distance to the next base while managing pickoff risk.
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