The saying may go “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks”, but Nimura Sports of Granada Hills, CA is betting that they can teach or re-teach baseball and softball players how to throw a ball correctly. The Excel Throw is a simple, yet seemly effective training device that not only properly positions the fingers during the throwing of a ball, but also through its continued use, aids in instilling this proper position by way of ’muscle memory’.
The Excel Throw is a Z-shaped device with two finger holes that the index and middle finger are inserted through before the player even grabs a baseball or softball. Once the fingers are properly positioned, the Excel Throw will only allow the ball to be thrown straight to the intended target. Along with controlling the direction of the ball, this device only allows the player to throw with a certain amount of force – this is a training aid to teach players the proper way to throw, not a device to aid them in throwing the ball faster. When used properly, not only does the Excel Throw allow the ball to be thrown straight, but it also helps break the habit of the wrist twisting left or right upon release of the ball. To aid with this proper position that is being guided through finger placement while using the Excel Throw, there are arrows that are molded in both to give the player a visual cue that they are throwing the ball accurately.
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Not only does the Excel Throw teach and reinforce proper finger placement, but it as lets the player know if they are dropping their elbow upon release. During the release of the ball if the elbow drops, the ball will slide up the device immediately letting the player know they were not in the proper throwing position.
There are two models of the Excel Throw, either ¾-inch or 1-inch diameter holes, but just like the original Ford Model T, it is available in every color just as long as it is black. The Excel Throw can be purchased directly through website and has a retail price of $19.95. With the official start of winter just a few weeks away, it may seem like an odd time to bring up a baseball training aid, but with spring training right behind winter, why go into next season with a bad habit. Just like another proverb says, “it’s never too late to mend”.