The MLB postseason is more than just an exhilarating display of talent—it’s a masterclass in the fundamentals of the game. With every pitch, at-bat, and play under a microscope, the smallest details become the biggest difference-makers. Pitchers aren’t just throwing—they’re executing precise game plans, hitting spots, and mixing pitches to outsmart hitters in the highest-pressure moments. For young players looking to elevate their game, watching the postseason is an opportunity to learn firsthand how professionals thrive by doing the basics right.
In the postseason, management styles shift dramatically compared to the regular season. There’s little room for error, and every pitch is magnified. Starters are on a much shorter leash—managers aren’t afraid to have relievers ready to go as early as the first inning if they sense trouble. It’s not uncommon to see a starting pitcher dominate through five innings only to be pulled for a fresh arm, regardless of their pitch count. This heightened intensity forces pitchers to maintain pinpoint control because something as small as a leadoff walk can end their outing. It’s a relentless, chess-like approach where the best strategy is one that leaves no room for uncertainty.
That’s why it’s important for pitchers to execute the fundamentals. Those who can consistently do so are the ones who stay on the mound longer and give their teams a chance to win. Here are a few fundamentals that I have recognized this postseason as key contributors to doing so:
- Getting ahead of hitters with first-pitch strikes sets the tone, forcing batters into defensive counts and allowing pitchers to expand the zone
- Avoiding walks is crucial; free passes often lead to trouble, especially in games where every base runner is a potential game-changer
- It’s not just about what happens at the plate—holding runners close and disrupting their timing can prevent stolen bases and keep the defense in control
Just watching the first round of Wild Card games, you saw outings from Tarik Skubal, Corbin Burnes and Cole Ragans, who executed over 80% first pitch strikes and walked a combined two batters. Watch highlights from those outings because there is so much to learn from them.
I could go into all three of the pitcher’s outings, but Skubal’s specifically was an absolute masterclass. He executed four pitches for strikes early in counts allowing him to later expand with elevated fastballs or changeups below the zone with two strikes, keeping Astros hitters off balance. He also stood strong to his fundamentals in leverage situations, getting ahead and holding the Astros to only one hit in eight at bats with runners on base. It proves that pitchers who master these fundamentals are the ones who thrive, even in the heightened pressure of October baseball.
You also saw the opposite side of the spectrum hold true, even in smaller sample sizes. The Pete Alonso go-ahead home run against Brewers’ closer Devin Williams was set up by two separate fundamental failures: walking the leadoff hitter, Francisco Lindor, and giving up a two strike hit to Brandon Nimmo. While both of those mistakes would not be dooming by themselves, the Brewers were punished by Alonso’s home run and their season ended after that inning.
The MLB postseason is a showcase of the sport at its highest level, where the difference between winning and losing often comes down to a pitcher’s ability to execute the fundamentals. Watching how professionals handle these situations provides young pitchers with a blueprint for success. The postseason is more than just thrilling baseball—it’s an educational experience that reveals how mastering the fundamentals can lead to dominance on the mound and ultimately, victory for the team.
If you’re a pitcher looking to elevate your game by mastering these fundamentals, I can help you develop the skills necessary to thrive in any situation. Reach out to learn more about my coaching and how we can take your performance to the next level.
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