How to Build a Pitching Mound

To throw like a pro, you need to build a pitching mound. It is however, quite easy to create. The critical part is getting the appropriate materials.

Required Tools and Materials

Sand
Clay
Dirt
Shovel
Rake
Measuring tape or ruler
Chalk for outlining purposes
Rubber (white, 24” x 6”)

Making the Mound

Begin by mixing the sand, dirt and clay. These need to be of equal amounts. Too little or too much of one component will make it unstable. After the ingredients have been mixed, set it aside. Use a chalk to designate the area it will occupy. Make it a circular shape. If you want to build a pitching mound similar to what the pros use, make it 18 inches in diameter. Pour in the mix.

Setting the Height

There is actually no standard height. Rather it is based on the home plate’s height. The spot where the pitcher will be standing has to be 10 and a half inches higher. That being said, some leagues have their own specifications. Inquire as to their dimensions to get the right measurements. When you have the height you want, arrange the soil that way. Use a ruler to ensure it’s the correct level.

Flattening and Sloping

The next step is to level the topmost part. To build a pitching mound accurately, make it 5 inches in diameter. Next you should slope it from the five inch spot down to the ground. Make it as even as possible. You can include a pitcher’s landing mount. Flatten another area midway from the first slope. This can be 2 ft by 2 ft. The landing spot is only optional though.

Now you can put in the rubber. You should put it in the midst of the topmost part. Move it a little to the back. The appropriate distance is about 8 ft from the rear and 10 ft away from the front end. To help you put it in the right place you can use a ruler.

Tips

To build a pitching mound, the key element remains the mixture. Use a measuring container to ascertain the materials are in equal proportions. Mixing them well is also essential.

Account for the placement of the home plate too. By accounting for this as well as the location of the bases the overall design will be better. Ask your friends to help you if you have trouble getting all the measurements correctly.

The mixture can be done with hands. However you can set aside containers for mixing the soil. Getting the dirt requires a shovel so you should have one in hand. You should also have a cover necessary to protect it from rain.

To throw the ball right you need to practice. There are many different pitches. Take your time. It may take some time to get used to the feel of the structure, but you’ll get used to it.

If you love baseball, you’ll want to have as realistic a setup as possible. When you build a pitching mound, you’ve taken the right step forward.