The Day I Let a 12U Pitcher Hit—and She Hit a Bomb
Apr 23, 2025
This story still gives me chills.
I was running a 12U game with one of my lesson girls on the mound. She was new to pitching and just finding her confidence. But she had crazy energy, a big smile, and always begged to hit.
Her coach came up before the game:
“We’re thinking of just letting her pitch today—not bat.”
I asked: “Is she okay with that?”
The coach shrugged. “I guess.”
So I pulled her aside and asked directly, “Do you want to hit?”
Her eyes lit up: “YES!”
Long story short—she went 2-for-3 with a stand-up triple and the game-winning RBI.
I’ll never forget how she ran off the field, helmet flying, yelling,
“COACH D I TOLD YOU I COULD HIT!”
That’s the thing. Sometimes, we forget how much the mental side matters. When a kid believes they’re allowed to compete—they show you what they’re capable of.
So before labeling someone “pitcher-only,” ask:
Are we doing this for development—or for convenience?
There’s a big difference.
Coaches, have you had a player prove you wrong (in the best way)? Share it. Let’s hype up the athletes who show up when no one expects it.
Develop the Complete Athlete
The best pitchers are athletes first. The Diamond Strong Mindset Academy helps players build confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset that carries over to every part of the game.
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