Baseball-Inspired Pickleball Serve: Pickleball coach and commentator Dominic Catalano introduced a new serving drill inspired by baseball in a recent YouTube video. Using a comparison to fielding in baseball, Catalano showed how momentum can improve serve power and consistency. The video featured pro player Damian as a demonstration partner.
Baseball Momentum Translates to Pickleball Power
Catalano compared a pickleball serve to an infielder fielding a ground ball and throwing to first base.
“As an infielder in baseball… I want my momentum moving towards my target,” he explained. “That ensures that where my momentum is going, that’s where the ball is going.”
In pickleball, Catalano said players can apply the same idea by using their body movement to generate force through the ball when serving.
Damian Demonstrates the Forward Momentum Serve
In the video, pro player Damian demonstrated the drill. “We’re going to really get into our serve and… use our momentum moving forward to create more power on that ball,” Catalano said.
As Damian served, Catalano pointed out how the forward movement of the body added extra pace to each shot.
“There’s that momentum moving forward. Good, clearing that hip… I like it,” said Catalano. “He’s getting that momentum through the ball… he’s getting a little more extra on that ball right there.”
Simple Drill With Pro-Level Impact
Catalano emphasized that the drill is easy to do but can make a big difference in a player’s serve. The focus is on building momentum before and during contact, just like a baseball player throwing with motion toward their target.
By training with this mindset, players can improve their power, direction, and rhythm on the serve.
Tips from a Trusted Voice in Pickleball
Dominic Catalano is a professional pickleball commentator and serves as the head coach of Major League Pickleball’s Atlanta Bouncers. His baseball-to-pickleball training series offers creative tips for players at any level.
“If you want to evolve your game… we have tips like this all over Selkirk TV,” said Catalano.
News in Brief: Baseball-Inspired Pickleball Serve
Pickleball coach Dominic Catalano shared a new serving drill inspired by baseball. He compared the serve to an infielder throwing to first base, showing how forward momentum boosts power and accuracy. Pro player Damian demonstrated the drill, which focuses on body movement to improve serves.
ALSO READ: Roscoe Bellamy’s Pickleball Serve Tips: Improve Power and Consistency!