# Beat Baseball Yips - Learn How to Overcome the Throwing Yips in Baseball or Softball > Generated by All in One SEO Pro v5.0.2.1, this is an llms-full.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. Learn mental game strategies to improve your throwing by overcoming the throwing yips in baseball or softball ## Posts ### [What Are the Yips in Baseball? The Throwing Yips Explained](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) **Published:** August 28, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Catcher in a blue chest protector and shin guards with an umpire behind, overcome the throwing yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips.jpg) If you can throw freely in warm-ups but tighten up when the game starts, you may be dealing with the throwing yips. I have worked with baseball and softball players with throwing problems for years, and the pattern is familiar. It often starts with one bad throw, and then the fear of another one takes over. **Quick answer:** The yips in baseball are a sudden loss of control over a throw that used to feel automatic. A player who has thrown accurately for years starts to freeze, flinch, rush or sail the ball, often on easy throws. The cause can be mental, physical or a mix of both, and the problem is hard to shake but not hopeless. I’m Dr. Patrick Cohn, a sports psychology coach and the founder of [Peak Performance Sports, LLC](https://www.peaksports.com). I’ve worked in baseball and golf for 40 years helping players with the mental game, including how to overcome the **throwing yips.** That work led us to develop a model of the **yips cycle,** which is the foundation of our **Breaking the Yips Cycle** program. Today I work alongside our team of mental performance coaches, and we coach baseball and softball players one-on-one by video from anywhere in the world. ## Signs and symptoms of the throwing yips The Mayo Clinic describes a sudden muscle jerk as the most common symptom of the yips, with some people also noticing shaking, twitching, spasms or brief freezing. In baseball, players usually describe it in their own words: - **Freezing or pausing** in the middle of the throwing motion - **A jerk, hitch or flinch** as you release the ball - **Throws that sail, bounce or spike**, or a sudden loss of feel for the ball - **Being fine in warm-ups and bullpens but worse in games** - **Trouble on short, easy throws** more than on hard, long ones (see [why short toss is the hardest](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-short-toss-is-the-hardest/)) - **Lobbing a “safe” throw** instead of using your normal throw with pace (see [why ball players go to a safe throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-ball-players-go-to-a-safe-throw/)) - **Overthinking mechanics** and tinkering with your delivery after a bad outing One example from my coaching: a high school pitcher could not throw the ball back to the pitcher accurately, a throw that does not affect the game at all. Yet he could throw to second base with little trouble when it counted. That is a typical yips puzzle, and it is one reason I look at the mental side first. ## How common are the throwing yips? More common than most players think. In a 2021 questionnaire study of 107 college baseball players in Japan, 47.1% met the researchers’ definition of throwing yips, meaning a loss of control of accurate throwing lasting more than one month. The symptoms were more pronounced on short, low-intensity throws. That was a small study of one team, so I would not treat 47% as a national number. But it shows that throwing trouble is not rare, and that you are not the only one who has it. ## Is it the yips or just a throwing slump? Every ball player has throwing ups and downs, and a rough week of throws is not the yips. The signs that point to the yips are a loss of control that keeps going for weeks, fear or avoidance around throwing, and a big gap between how you throw in practice and how you throw in games. Most ball players go through similar stages during a bout of the yips. See how many of these sound familiar: - You sense that mental factors are interfering with your throwing. - You feel anxious or cautious while you play. - You have little or no trouble in practice. - You have thrown accurately for long stretches in the past. - You try to solve the problem by changing your throwing mechanics. - You feel some fear of admitting you have the yips, or fear of embarrassment. ## What causes the yips? Mental, physical or both? The honest answer is that researchers do not fully agree, and it can differ from player to player. The Mayo Clinic says the yips were once thought to be always linked to performance anxiety. It now appears that in some people the yips are a type of focal dystonia, a neurological condition that causes involuntary muscle contractions during one specific task. Mayo adds that anxiety makes it worse. Mayo researchers have also described a continuum, with performance anxiety (“choking”) at one end and focal dystonia at the other. Note that most of this medical research was done on golfers, not baseball players. From my work with ball players, the main driver is often **performance anxiety and fear of failure**. One bad outing leads some players to tinker with their mechanics, worry about the outcome, and worry about how others see the problem. Then they try to make the perfect throw, and trying too hard makes them over-control the motion. **See a doctor if** you have pain, numbness or weakness in your arm or hand, or if the jerking or freezing also shows up outside of throwing. There is no standard test for the yips. A doctor can rule out other causes, and that is worth doing before you assume it is only mental. ## Famous cases of the yips in baseball The yips have ended some careers and interrupted many others. Baseball-Reference’s entry on the yips names several well-known players: - **Steve Blass:** The Pirates pitcher was an All-Star, then suddenly lost his command in 1973 and retired in 1974. The yips are sometimes called “Steve Blass disease.” - **Rick Ankiel:** A young Cardinals pitcher who lost control of his pitches in the 2000 postseason. He later returned to the majors as an outfielder. Read about [Rick Ankiel’s throwing problem](https://www.baseball-yips.com/rick-ankiel-throwing-problem/). - **Mark Wohlers:** A former pitcher also named on Baseball-Reference’s list. - **Daniel Bard:** Read [how Daniel Bard overcame the yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/). - **Steve Sax:** A second baseman who had the yips in the early 1980s, according to Baseball-Reference. Catcher Mackey Sasser had them about a decade later. For more, see [bad cases of the yips in MLB](https://www.baseball-yips.com/bad-cases-of-yips-in-mlb/) and [the yips and MLB careers](https://www.baseball-yips.com/yips-and-mlb-careers/). ## The yips by position: pitchers, catchers, infielders and softball The yips are most noticeable in pitchers and catchers, the players who touch the ball the most, but infielders and other position players get them too. - **Pitchers:** Losing the strike zone and the feel for the ball. See [when the yips interfere with pitching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/when-the-yips-interfere-with-pitching/). - **Catchers:** Trouble throwing back to the pitcher or down to second. See [catchers who can’t throw short distances](https://www.baseball-yips.com/catchers-who-cant-throw-short-distances/). - **Infielders:** Trouble throwing across the diamond to first base. - **Softball players:** The yips happen in softball too. It is the same loss of control of a throw that used to feel automatic. ## Watch: Dr. Cohn answers common yips questions Three short videos from my baseball mental game series, each with a one-line summary: ### How do the yips start in baseball or softball? Dr. Cohn explains his philosophy about the yips cycle and how the yips start. ### Why do ball players go to two different throws at game time? Dr. Cohn talks about the throwing yips in baseball and how they change the way players throw. ### Does your throw feel tight in games but free in practice? Dr. Cohn answers a common question about throws that feel tight in games but free in practice. ## The yips cycle: why the problem feeds itself The throwing yips are hard to shake because players get stuck in a cycle. It starts with a past yip or a missed throw. That creates a fear of missing again, which leads to avoidance or over-control of the throw. The result is another yip or another over-controlled throw, and the thought “I’ve failed again.” Embarrassment follows, then the feeling that others see you fail, then “I’m a failure,” and the cycle starts over. ![Yips cycle in baseball diagram: fear of missing again, avoidance, over-control, embarrassment and failure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Baseball-Yips-Cycle-600.jpg) Breaking that cycle is what my [Breaking the Yips Cycle audio program](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/) is built around. ## What helps the throwing yips No single approach works for every player, and I cannot promise a cure. These are the steps I see make the biggest difference: 1. **Simplify your throw.** Do not make your motion more complex or more perfect. Stop tinkering with mechanics after a bad outing. 2. **Get back the freedom of playing catch,** the way you threw as a kid. 3. **Drop the perfect throw.** Strict expectations push you to over-control. See [why over-thinking leads to throwing problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-over-thinking-leads-to-throwing-problems/). 4. **Focus on the process and the target,** not on the outcome or what others think. 5. **Stop the safe throw.** Work back toward your normal throw with pace, in small steps. 6. **Use mental skills training.** The Mayo Clinic lists relaxation, breathing exercises and visualization as ways to reduce anxiety and improve focus. It also suggests practicing without time limits, scoring or an audience, because symptoms often get worse under stress. For a step-by-step walkthrough, read [how to overcome the throwing yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips/). ## For parents and coaches If your son or player suddenly cannot make routine throws, stay calm. Avoid labeling it or telling him to “just throw it.” Pressure and embarrassment feed the cycle. Keep throwing fun and low-stakes, and check with a doctor if there is any pain. See [how coaches handle the yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-do-coaches-handle-the-yips/). ## When to get help Start with a doctor if there is pain or any physical symptom. For the mental game side, see my [coaching programs for the throwing yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) or download the [free yips report](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/). ## Frequently asked questions ### What are the yips in baseball? The yips are a sudden loss of control of a throw that used to feel automatic. Players freeze, flinch or sail the ball, often on easy throws. ### Are the yips mental or physical? Both can play a role. The Mayo Clinic says some cases are a type of focal dystonia, a neurological condition, and that anxiety makes it worse. In my experience, performance anxiety and fear of failure drive many cases in ball players. ### Can you cure the yips? There is no single proven cure, and I cannot promise one. Many players improve by simplifying the throw, dropping the need to be perfect, and working on the mental game. See a doctor first if there is pain or any physical symptom. ### What are the yips in softball? The same problem happens in softball: a sudden loss of control of a throw or a pitch that used to feel automatic. ### Why do the yips show up only in games? Pressure raises the fear of failure, and fear makes players over-control the throw. Read [why the yips only come during games](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-do-the-yips-only-come-during-games/). ### Who has had the yips in baseball? Steve Blass, Rick Ankiel, Mark Wohlers, Daniel Bard, Steve Sax and Mackey Sasser are often named. ### How long do the yips last? It varies. Some players recover after a short time, while others need longer-term adjustments. ### Can the yips end a baseball career? For some players, yes. Others recover, and Rick Ankiel returned to the majors as an outfielder. ## About the author Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychologist and the founder of Peak Performance Sports. He has 40 years of experience helping athletes improve their mental game, and he works with baseball players and golfers to overcome the yips. *This article is for education and is not medical advice. If you have pain, numbness or weakness, see a doctor.* ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Baseball Yips: Your Questions Answered](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/) - [How to Overcome The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips/) - [Why Short Toss is the Hardest](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-short-toss-is-the-hardest/) - [How Daniel Bard Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Tips --- ### [Ball Players Who Resort to a Safe Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/ball-players-who-resort-to-a-safe-throw/) **Published:** April 27, 2017 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## ![Improving Throwing Accuracy](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/improve-accuracy.jpg) ## How to Make Throwing Problems Worse What have you tried to improve your throwing? This is one question I ask my readers after they get my free report… **Anthony said:** *“I’ve tried throwing it softly because when I throw it hard, the ball goes everywhere. I can’t seem to control the ball when throwing hard. I over think and get scared that I’ll make a bad throw.”* This is a common change that players make when they have throwing accuracy problems. They go to a safe throw, a blooper, or softer throw. **What do other players do when trying to improve throwing when they lose accuracy?** ### **Players will:** - Analyze and change their mechanics - Over think the process of throwing - Work with their coach on technique - Hide the issue from teammates by going underhanded - Avoid doing drills they struggle with the most Making mechanical changes or going to a safe throw will not help you address the real issue: **Fear of making a bad throw at the wrong time.** But that’s how most players will try to improve their throwing… However, changing the throwing action mid-season can cause more harm because you start to over think it. The problem is that when you have **throwing problems,** you feel like it’s a physical issue. So players will try to address it with a physical change, such as **focusing** more on the release. And this leads to over control and too much thinking… Just what you don’t need to improve your throwing. If you have full command of your throwing during practice—when alone at home or with your teammates—but lose control when you scrimmage or play in a game, the problem is a mental game issue! #### What’s the solution? You won’t find it in **positive** thinking or **visualization.** These are band aids to the real issue. The real issue is over control or lack of trust in your arm due to fear of failure. 90% of the players I work with on the **throwing yips,** are scared about what others think. My ball players worry about what coaches, teammates, and parents will think if they make a bad throw. All this leads to outcome thinking, worry, tension, and trying too hard. In Anthony’s case and many other ball players, it leads to going to a safe throw. #### Thus, to improve your throwing, you have to: 1. Let go of worrying about the negative outcome. 2. Let go of what others think if you miss a throw. 3. Stay in the moment while throwing. 4. Focus on the right performance cues during play. 5. Go back to throwing on instinct. I help players with all these tasks to improve their throwing. **You have two options:** 1. Virtual mental coaching via phone or Zoom (return this email for more details of the program). 2. “Breaking the Yips Cycle” audio and workbook program (see below). --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is a safe throw? A safe throw is a blooper or softer throw that players go to when they have throwing accuracy problems. The article says it is a common change, but it does not address the real issue, which is the fear of making a bad throw at the wrong time. ### Why does changing your mechanics make throwing problems worse? The article says throwing problems feel like a physical issue, so players try physical changes, such as focusing more on the release. That leads to over control and too much thinking, and changing your throwing action mid-season can cause more harm. ### How can you improve your throwing if you go to a safe throw? The article says to let go of worrying about the negative outcome, let go of what others think if you miss a throw, stay in the moment while throwing, focus on the right performance cues during play, and go back to throwing on instinct. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Why Ball Players Go to a Safe Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-ball-players-go-to-a-safe-throw/) - [Avoiding Bad Throws Hurts Performance](https://www.baseball-yips.com/avoiding-bad-throws-hurts-performance/) - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [How Throwing Errors Can Turn Into The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/throwing-errors-can-turn-into-the-yips/) - [Does “Tapping” or EFT Help With The Throwing Yips?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/does-tapping-help-with-the-throwing-yips/) - [Baseball Yips FAQ](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Throwing Yips Tips, Conquer The Yips Articles, Throwing Yips Article and Tips --- ### [How Perceived Pressure Contributes to the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-perceived-pressure-contributes-to-the-yips/) **Published:** March 8, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/how-perceived-pressure-contributes-to-the-yips.jpg) ## How Perceived Pressure Feeds the Yips Baseball players sense great **pressure** when battling a bout of the **yips.** The **throwing yips** don’t just affect one player (you) but often can change the outcome of a game for an entire team. With the weight of the team on your shoulders, there is even more pressure on you to make the perfect throw because you believe that one errant throw can be the game-changer, the break the opposing team needs to mount a rally or the insurance runs that seal the game for the other team. When you perceive a increased amount of pressure, the chances of you continuing to yip increase dramatically. #### There are several thoughts that amp up the pressure in your mind: - You don’t want to be the reason your team lost - You don’t want to be benched or lose playing time - You don’t want your manager to lose faith in you - You don’t want to let down your parents - You don’t want the yips to affect the course of your career - You don’t want to be “that guy” whose name is associated with the yips It is important to realize that this heightened sense of **pressure** is fabricated in your mind. When you direct your attention to all these negative thoughts, you are basically feeding the **yips.** #### Negative thoughts are the fertilizer that allows anxiety to grow. Throwing a ball when you are **over-anxious** interferes with fluid, unconscious throwing mechanics and is the root cause of the yips. ## Wilmer Flores: A 2015 Example Wilmer Flores, shortstop for the New York Mets, put tremendous pressure on himself at the start of the 2015 season leading to some “out-of-character” errors. Flores was a sure-handed infielder who split time between second base and shortstop during parts of the 2013 and 2014 seasons. In 99 games during his first two seasons, Flores made only seven errors. In 2015, Flores was named the regular season starter and, with his new team role, the stakes to perform were raised. In 103 games at shortstop in 2015, Flores doubled his amount of errors (14) from his previous seasons. Four games into the season, Flores already appeared flustered in the field making three throwing errors and two other errant throws at were saved by the first baseman. Manager Terry Collins talked about how errant throws could be the difference between winning and losing. **COLLINS:** *“We gave them some extra outs two or three times. At this level, you’re going to get beat if you do that.”* Collins didn’t feel that Flores had the full-blown yips but did so in a cautionary manner. **COLLINS:** *“I don’t think it’s in his head just yet.”* Collins was alluding that the yips did not have Flores in its grips. Nonetheless, Flores errors were in his head. Flores’ mechanics were fine; it was the buildup of pressure that affected his throws. #### Try this tip to keep pressure at manageable levels: Identify your optimal pressure level. From 1-10, what amount of pressure allows you to play your best. You need to check in on this pressure level several times during games. Ask yourself, *“What number am I now?”* If you play best at a 4-5 range and you notice you are at a 7, your thoughts are probably the culprit. Redirect your thoughts to something that brings your level back down to that optimal range. Remember, you are directly in control of the **pressure** you experience… so you have the control to change it. --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) - [Why Ball Players Go to a Safe Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-ball-players-go-to-a-safe-throw/) - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Articles, Throwing Yips in Baseball Tips --- ### [How to Break the Grip of the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-break-the-grip-of-the-yips/) **Published:** January 9, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** Every baseball player has made an error or a series of **throwing errors** during their careers. What makes some athletes develop the **yips** while other players recover to their previous form? Well, let’s think about for a minute… better yet, let’s not think about it. The more you think about what is wrong with you and analyze your throwing motion, the **worse the yips** get. The **throwing yips** are a physical manifestation (hitch in your throwing motion) caused by mental factors. If you can learn to redirect your focus and trust your throwing motion (the very motion you have used effectively thousands of times), you can avoid yipping. Peter O’Brien was a highly-touted catching prospect drafted in the second round by the New York Yankees in 2012. O’Brien was traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks was invited to their 2015 spring training as a non-roster player. Diamondbacks manager Chip Hale thinks O’Brien is a great Major League prospect but admits he has some **yip** issues when he throws. HALE: *“He’s shown up here he \[O’Brien\] can hit, he’s a major league bat. Behind the plate he was as good as we had defensively. He caught great, he worked great with the pitchers. The throwing issue was mostly just throwing it back to the pitcher.”* During spring training, O’Brien had many instances of wild throws back to the mound including times with runners on base. O’Brien even had difficulty returning the ball accurately to the pitcher during warm-up throws between innings and issues getting the ball to the third baseman after bases-empty strikeouts. O’Brien has downplayed his **throwing issue**, instead blaming his problem on bouncing back and forth between positions. O’BRIEN: *“I played a lot of different positions last year and had a lot of different arm angles. Now being back behind the plate full time, it’s making sure I keep my arm slot consistent back there and keep throwing it and keep the tempo of the game up.”* O’Brien has minimized his **yips issue** and his approach to fix his problem is solely focus on his physical mechanics. O’BRIEN: *“It’s part of the game. We throw the baseball so much. I’ve been working on it, getting it under control and making sure I keep the tempo of the game up and keep working from there.”* **Try this tip to break the grip of the yips:** Over-thinking your **throwing** motion is what keeps you entrenched in the yips. The key to breaking the hold of the **yips** lies in improving the mental skill of focus. If you “throw the ball so much” like O’Brien said, there is no need to focus on the mechanics of the throw. Try saying the word “relax” as you throw instead of giving yourself mental mechanic instructions as you throw. By improving your mental game, you will optimize your potential as a baseball player. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What keeps you stuck in the yips? The article says overthinking your throwing motion is what keeps you entrenched in the yips, and that the more you think about what is wrong and analyze your throwing motion, the worse the yips get. ### What mental skill breaks the hold of the yips? The article says the key lies in improving the mental skill of focus. If you have thrown the ball thousands of times, there is no need to focus on the mechanics of the throw. ### What is a tip to break the grip of the yips? Try saying the word “relax” as you throw instead of giving yourself mental mechanic instructions as you throw. #### Get [Yips Coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) with Dr. Patrick Cohn Today! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome the yips cycle with personal coaching. Learn how to overcome the throwing yips and throw freely again. You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at **407-909-1700** or [contact us at for more information about throwing yips coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beat-throwing-yips-contact/)! --- #### More Tips to Beat the Throwing Yips - Get Our Free [Baseball Yips Report.](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/) - Read Other Articles About [Baseball Yips.](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/baseball-yips-articles/) - Watch [Throwing Yips Videos](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/baseball-yips-video/). ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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**Published:** January 24, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** [![Pitcher in a white and blue uniform kicking his back leg high after the throw, overcome the yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/baseball-yips-large.jpg)](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/baseball-yips-large.jpg) The yips can affect all players in all different positions. The real question is, how does a coach helps players with the yips–if that’s the real problem behind poor throwing. Some players don’t even know they have the yips and will accept that their mechanics are to blame… Many coaches try to deny the yips by saying they just have a mechanical throwing problem. Some coaches make the players practice more to make changes, which only makes the yips worse. Now that players are acknowledging they have the yips, coaches understand that not all throwing problems are mechanical. But are coaches handling throwing problems the right way? Retired hall of fame coach, Bob Bennett talks about his personal experiences when he was a catcher and what his coaches told him to do to fix it at the time. BENNETT: *“Some coaches recognize \[the yips\] and try to develop cures for it. I personally had this problem as a young college catcher and had many outstanding coaches try to help me solve it but to no avail. Their solution was to “just throw the ball back to the pitcher,” “don’t think about it, just throw the ball,” “you’re thinking about this too much – just throw the ball,” “count to three and throw the ball back to the pitcher,” “just cut loose and don’t worry about where the ball is going.”* Bennett came to learn that his throwing problem was a **mental block** and not something that can be fixed physically. Coaches will go to what they know: work on mechanics to solve the throwing problem. But this approach can dig players further into a hole – if they have the yips in the first place. BENNETT: *“Many catchers have experienced having difficulties throwing the ball back to the pitcher. Infielders also experience this problem when throwing for short distances and for some throwing at any distance. Outfielders sometimes undergo this phenomenon when throwing at shorter distances. Generally speaking this phenomenon hits pitchers when they are making a short throw to first base or a short throw to home plate on a force play.”* We know that any player at any level can get the throwing yips. But today with the help of an experienced mental game coach, players can get learn to overcome it. Often team managers or pitching coaches are not trained with how to deal with the mental aspects of the yips. If they don’t recognize the throwing problem as mental, they can do more damage to the player’s confidence… When a coach or pitching coach changes a player’s throwing action, they lose some control and consistency until they can repeat the motion intuitively. But this is not ideal if the player’s throwing problem was mental to start. That’s the major confusion because the mental anxiety and tension associated with the yips can alter a player’s mechanics. Coaches see a change in the throwing action and assume that they need to work on mechanics. However, many baseball teams have embraced Sports Psychologists and some have one in the dugout for every game. Mental game coaches are working with players during practice and games so that they can succeed as a team. These players are also getting more help from mental coaches so they can overcome the yips and regain their confidence and throwing accuracy. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How do coaches usually handle the yips? The article says many coaches try to deny the yips by saying a player just has a mechanical throwing problem. Some coaches make players practice more to make changes, which only makes the yips worse. ### Why do coaches assume the yips is a mechanics problem? The article says the mental anxiety and tension associated with the yips can alter a player’s mechanics. Coaches see a change in the throwing action and assume they need to work on mechanics. ### Can a mental game coach help a player with the yips? The article says players can learn to overcome the yips with the help of an experienced mental game coach. It says many baseball teams have embraced sports psychologists, and some have one in the dugout for every game. #### Get [Yips Coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) with Peaksports Team Today! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome the yips cycle with personal coaching. Learn how to overcome the throwing yips and throw freely again. You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at **407-909-1700** or [contact us at for more information about throwing yips coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beat-throwing-yips-contact/)! --- #### More Tips to Beat the Throwing Yips - Get Our Free [Baseball Yips Report.](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/) - Read Other Articles About [Baseball Yips.](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/baseball-yips-articles/) - Watch [Throwing Yips Videos](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/baseball-yips-video/). ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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October 31, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ryan-zimmermans-throwing-yips.jpg) ## The Throwing Yips in Baseball Ryan Zimmerman had a well-documented case of the **throwing yips…** It is clear to see that Ryan Zimmerman has the **throwing yips**. He gets these balls hit directly towards him and as soon as he goes to throw them they are too wide, they hit the ground, or the other player can’t attempt to catch it because it is all over the place. During routine plays he is expected to throw the ball to get a player out and Zimmerman is doing the exact opposite. In one play, he throws a ball to the first baseman and it is so high that the first baseman leaves the base to catch it, making the runner safe. You can see how many **throwing errors** he has in just about every game. He has time to gather himself and throw the ball to the first baseman but it never seems to make the mark. In one throw to first base it almost hits the runner and the first baseman ends up hitting him trying to catch the ball which confirms his throwing errors. In 5 games he had 4 **throwing errors**. Do you think you suffer from the yips? --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Solutions For The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/solutions-for-throwing-yips/) - [How the Yips Infect Your Confidence](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-the-yips-can-infect-your-confidence/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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Throwing Yips Article and Tips, Throwing Yips in Baseball Tips --- ### [Beat the Yips: Trust or Bust](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beat-the-yips-trust-or-bust/) **Published:** November 2, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball pitcher in full follow-through after a throw, beat the throwing yips with trust](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/beat-the-yips-trust-or-bust.jpg) ## Mental Blocks And The Yips The **yips** are a reality that can hinder a baseball player’s progress and derail his career. The perceived inability to throw the ball where you want to can be like an insurmountable **mental block.** But understand that the **yips** is a “perceived inability.” You didn’t lose the ability to throw. The ability to make accurate throws is still within you. You just have bought into a belief and have given life to something that is not entirely true and that negative belief affects the way you play the game. For example, some batters hit for average and do not have much power in their swing… These batters believe they are not home run hitters, so they do not swing for the fences; it goes against what they believe to be true for themselves. If a pitcher cannot throw a slider for strikes against left-handed hitters, they will utilize the other effective pitches in their arsenal against these hitters. Baseball players rarely attempt something that is counter to their self-belief. A player caught in the middle of the **throwing yips**, believes he can’t make an accurate throw… When you believe you can’t make the throw, you will be hesitant when you have to make the throw. You will counter that doubt by trying to talk yourself through the throw… *“Get a good grip, pull arm back, hand over shoulder, eye target, push off back foot, rotate shoulders pivot hips, flick wrist at release point, follow through…”* No wonder why you sail the ball or bounce it in the dirt… that is a whole lot of information to digest while **throwing.** To make matters worse, you compound the problem by **worrying** about every potential negative consequence of an errant throw. Chicago White Sox catcher Geovany Soto is an 11-year veteran, one-time All-Star and Rookie of the Year, who appears to be experiencing the **yips** although he vehemently denies the suggestion. Soto has developed an awkward habit when he throws the ball back to the pitcher… Soto throws from his knees bracing his glove hand on the ground and falls forward as he sends the ball softly in the direction of the mound. After each throw he lands his throwing hand on home plate and wipes it free of dirt. Soto stated he throws in this manner out of habit, something that happened following a knee injury in 2014. Eric Chavez, A’s broadcaster and 17-year MLB begs to differ with Soto believing the catcher is **suffering** through the **yips.** **CHAVEZ:** *“He wants everybody to think it’s a routine to grab the dirt and get a good grip on the ball but really, he’s hiding… Something traumatic had to have happened to put you in that state of mind. I don’t know if he made a couple bad throws or something, but something triggered it.”* The **mental block** Soto is battling causes him to overthink the act of throwing as if he is actively giving himself step-by-step instructions as he throws. This conscious awareness causes Soto to be mechanical, jerky and unnatural. When dealing with the **yips**, it’s either trust or bust! The good news is that you can overcome the yips by **improving your mental game.** #### Tip for beating the yips: Make a counter-argument. Just because you think something doesn’t make it factual. Stop making a case for the **yips.** List all the reasons for why you can make this throw that you have effectively made thousands of time. --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Is Missing Throws a Mental or Physical Problem?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/missing-throws-mental-or-physical-problem/) - [Tuning Out Mental Interference](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beating-the-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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--- ### [How to Overcome The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips/) **Published:** November 19, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Softball Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/one-player-who-beat-the-throwing-yips-1.jpg) ## Pitchers With The Throwing Yips Did you ever suddenly become unable to find the target when **pitching**? Instead of throwing the ball you try to aim it or guide it towards the catcher’s mitt but the ball seemed to have a mind of its own. You try to force the ball in the strike zone but it feels like you have **forgotten how to pitch**. It seems like you haven’t thrown a strike in forever and your control is shot. You wonder how you suddenly lost your ability to throw a strike but there is no particular reason or explanation you can find. You very well may be experiencing the **“pitching yips.”** The pitching yips are a sudden, unexplained loss of control or inability to throw the ball accurately. The **pitching yips** manifest itself in the inability to throw strikes or throwing a high percentage of wild pitches. One thing is for certain, if you didn’t suddenly change your pitching mechanics, the major cause is probably **mental.** The **pitching yips** have ended many pitching careers. The **yips** can get into your head causing you to lose your **confidence** and mess with your mechanics. As your muscles tighten due to the heightened **anxiety,** you force pitches and try to make the perfect pitch. Instead of **trusting** your pitches, all you can see is the ball landing everywhere but where you want it to go. In baseball circles, the **yips** are not discussed. It’s like that family secret that boils just under surface. It is often a difficult issue to overcome because it is never truly dealt with by most baseball players. Refusing to admit there is an issue keeps you stuck in a loop of fear, freaking out and **failure.** Call it what it is… the yips and start moving forward. Rick Ankiel was a highly-touted pitcher with a bright future for the St. Louis Cardinals. In 2000, 20 year-old Ankiel pitched his first full season and posted an 11–7 record, a 3.50ERA and 194 strikeouts in 30 games started. Ankiel struck out batters at a rate of 9.98 strikeouts per nine innings and allowed only 7.05 hits per nine innings. Ankiel started Game One of the National League Division Series against Atlanta Braves. In the third inning, Ankiel fell apart allowing four runs on two hits, four walks and throwing five wild pitches before being removed with two outs. From that moment on, **Ankiel battled the yips** eventually causing him to switch positions. #### Ankiel’s Yips Spiraled Out of Control: - Throwing five errant pitches in the first inning of Game 2 in the 2000 NL Championship Series - Throwing two more wild pitches in the seventh inning of Game 5 National League Championship Series. - Walking 25 batters and throwing five wild pitches in 24 innings in 2001. - Being sent down to the minors in 2001 and walking17 batters, throwing 12 wild pitches and jacking up his ERA to 20.77 in 4.1 innings. - Walking 49 batters and throwing 10 wild pitches in 54.1 inning in his 2003 minor league stint. During that 2000 playoff run, Ankiel outwardly denied any **mental block** but inwardly could not move past his **pitching yips.** **ANKIEL:** *“I’m not worried at all. I just know what I was doing. I knew what I was doing before, but I went out and threw again today and it was the same thing, throwing the way I wanted. I just have to carry that into the game. I just didn’t finish the pitch.”* The first step is to admit you have a **mental block.** You don’t need to put a label on it but you do need to face your performance issues so you can **mentally** attack them head on. #### How to Counter the Devastating Effects of the Throwing Yips: Ask yourself, *“Did I suddenly lose the talent I once displayed?”* or *“Is there a lingering injury altering my mechanics?”* If not, your solution lies in your **mental game.** Accept it and work through. **Write two columns:** *“My **mindset** pitching my best games”* and *“My mindset when I **yip.”*** Determine the differences in your thought processes, **focus** and approaches to these opposite performances. Remember, your **mental game** requires the same attention as you give your physical game. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What are the pitching yips? The pitching yips are a sudden, unexplained loss of control or inability to throw the ball accurately. The article says they show up as the inability to throw strikes or throwing a high percentage of wild pitches. ### What is the first step to overcome the throwing yips? The article says the first step is to admit you have a mental block. You do not need to put a label on it, but you do need to face your performance issues so you can attack them mentally. ### How do you know if the yips are mental and not physical? The article suggests asking yourself whether you suddenly lost the talent you once displayed or whether a lingering injury is altering your mechanics. If not, it says your solution lies in your mental game. ### What exercise does the article suggest? Write two columns: your mindset when you pitch your best games and your mindset when you yip. Then determine the differences in your thought processes, focus and approaches between the two. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Solutions For The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/solutions-for-throwing-yips/) - [Rick Ankiel’s Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/rick-ankiel-throwing-problem/) - [Bad Cases of Yips in MLB](https://www.baseball-yips.com/bad-cases-of-yips-in-mlb/) - [Baseball Yips: Your Questions Answered](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Yips Articles, Throwing Yips Article and Tips --- ### [How the Yips Infect Your Confidence](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-the-yips-can-infect-your-confidence/) **Published:** November 23, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/how-the-yips-infect-your-confidence.jpg) ## How Sax Overcame The Yips Do you fear that a couple **throwing** errors will lead to more and more? Do you start thinking about your throw as you are throwing? Thinking about an otherwise unconscious skill (throwing a baseball) while trying to execute the throw actually interferes with the process. #### The yips can emphasize the problem of over-thinking. The **yips** are a phenomenon where you switch unconscious to conscious thinking. Consciously thinking about throwing the ball handcuffs fielders and causes routine plays to become exceedingly difficult. Think about this for a minute, after you learned the proper mechanics of throwing the ball as a youngster, it became automatic or without conscious thought. Despite making some **throwing errors**, you didn’t forget the mechanics of throwing a ball… Your thinking got in the way. Some players respond to a few errors by paying attention to every detail of the throw from the grip and release point to the outcome. Then, during the stress of game time, you become overwhelmed as memories of past errors flood your mind. At this point, it may feel **impossible** to make an accurate throw. Steve Sax, former second baseman for the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees had a well-known case of the yips. Sax made 187 errors through the years 1981-1992. Sax remembers when his **throwing yips** started. In his third MLB season, Sax fielded a ground ball with a runner on third, the runner held up at third but Sax fired the ball in the dirt resulting in the runner scoring. Sax ruminated about that play so much that it haunted him and resulted in 30 errors that season. Sax’s throws became so wild that people sitting in the first base stands occasionally wore helmets. Sax had such difficulty with the **yips** that it put his career in jeopardy. **SAX:** *“I felt like I wanted to quit. It was the most **horrible, humiliating, embarrassing** experience. You go through so many emotions out there. … It’s absolute torture.”* Sax was anxious in the field, *“I was hoping a lot of times they wouldn’t hit the ball to me.”* **SAX:** *“I really don’t think it’s a **mental block** like people are making it out to be. I think once your **confidence** is restored, you regain that ability.”* Actually, Sax did regain his **confidence** and **ability** to make plays in the field. In 1991, Sax posted a .990 fielding percentage. #### What strategy did Sax utilize to regain his form? Instead of taking his time to throw the ball to first, Sax sped up the process, used a key phrase to help his **focus** and **rehearsed** this strategy over and over in practice until it became second nature. Basically, Sax re-taught himself how to the ball… not technically but **mentally.** **SAX:** *“Every ground ball in practice was like a game to me. Under my breath, in my head, I kept telling myself it was a good play. It may sound corny, but it’s true. That’s how I got over this thing.”* Sax is a testament that the **yips** can be overcome. #### Try this strategy to help in overcoming the yips: Cut yourself some slack… Errors are part of the game. Since you can only think a thought at a time, focus on a key word or phrase or count 1-2-3-4 as you throw the ball. It will help you **focus** your mind on what you are doing and not the fear of making a mistake. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How do the yips affect a player’s confidence? The article says some players respond to a few errors by paying attention to every detail of the throw. Then, during the stress of game time, they become overwhelmed by memories of past errors, and it may feel impossible to make an accurate throw. ### Why does thinking about a throw make it harder? Throwing becomes automatic after you learn the mechanics as a youngster. The article says thinking about an otherwise unconscious skill while you execute it interferes with the process, and that the yips are a phenomenon where you switch from unconscious to conscious thinking. ### Did Steve Sax recover from the yips? Yes. The article says Steve Sax, a former second baseman for the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees, had a well-known case of the yips. It says he regained his confidence and his ability to make plays in the field. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [How Daniel Bard Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) - [Ryan Zimmerman’s Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/bryan-zimmerman-throwing-yips-video/) - [Baseball Yips: Your Questions Answered](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Players Yips, Throwing Yips in Baseball Tips --- ### [Your Mental Game And Solving The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/improve-mental-game-solve-the-yips/) **Published:** December 4, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/your-mental-game-and-solving-the-yips.jpg) ## How Saltalamacchia Overcame The Yips Playing catch is an activity that most people have engaged in at some point in their lives. Throwing a ball back and forth in the backyard is not a difficult task for most. Why is that some of the most talented ball players, Major Leagues, have difficulty tossing a ball 60.5 feet from home plate back to the pitcher’s mound? The **Yips** are the culprit… a **mental** hiccup that causes players to double clutch, tense up, and overthink basic throws. The hardest part of the **yips** is admitting the role the mind plays in the yips. Baseball players readily accept the benefits of rehabbing physical injuries, improving their power by taking extra batting practice or taking extra fielding practice to improve their defense… But the **mental** aspects of the game are often viewed as weakness by many players. The reality is that the elite players in Major League Baseball are elite because they have a strong **mental game.** Top baseball players know a **strong mental game** can separate them from the “average” players. The most effective way to **overcome the yips** is to strengthen your **mental game…** That is how catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia overcame his **yip** problem and improved his game. Saltalamacchia has enjoyed a nine-year Major League career despite the 5.6 years is the average career length of a MLB player. Saltalamacchia almost suffered an early exit to his career when he suffered a case of the **yips.** Saltalamacchia had difficulty with the simplest of tasks… throwing the ball back to the pitcher. Saltalamacchia’s **yips problem** started with a shoulder injury but he believes he has overcome his **mental block.** **SALTALAMACCHIA:** *“It was a health issue that kind of grew **mental,** obviously, but I worked on it. I’ve got stuff I go through, but as far as I’m concerned it’s a dead issue… It’s one of those things that through my career I’m going to have to deal with, but I don’t see it being a problem. I don’t think about it.”* Saltalamacchia acknowledged that it was difficult asking for help but eventually elicited the help of a performance coach to strengthen his **mental game.** **SALTALAMACCHIA:** *“When I was first coming up, just being young, your ego plays into it. You don’t want anyone to know you’re getting help. But you’re getting help in the training room, why not get help for other issues?”* **Overcoming the yips** has allowed Saltalamacchia to free up his **focus** and pay attention to his job as a catcher. **SALTALAMACCHIA:** *“My job is the pitchers, to go out there and help them get through their game. When I get to the plate, do my job in whatever way the situation calls for.”* #### Try this important tip to help work through the yips: Don’t deny the problem, work through the problem. Seeking the help of a **mental game coach** is no different than working with a hitting coach to improve your swing, a nutritionist to help with your diet or a strength coach to increase flexibility or power. Your **mental game** makes a significant contribution to your throwing freedom and accuracy. The goal of **mental coaching** for the yips is to free up your throw to regain **confidence** and accuracy. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What are the yips in baseball? The article describes the yips as a mental hiccup that causes players to double clutch, tense up and overthink basic throws, even for talented Major League players. ### What is the most effective way to overcome the yips? The article says the most effective way to overcome the yips is to strengthen your mental game. It points to catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia, who overcame his yips problem and improved his game. ### How did Jarrod Saltalamacchia’s yips start? The article says his yips problem started with a shoulder injury. He said it was a health issue that grew mental, and that he worked on it. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How Daniel Bard Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) - [Why Short Toss is the Hardest](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-short-toss-is-the-hardest/) - [Tuning Out Mental Interference](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beating-the-throwing-yips/) - [How The Yips Have Affected MLB Careers](https://www.baseball-yips.com/yips-and-mlb-careers/) - [Does “Tapping” or EFT Help With The Throwing Yips?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/does-tapping-help-with-the-throwing-yips/) - [Baseball Yips FAQ](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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the Yips Articles --- ### [How The Yips Show Up In Big Games](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-the-yips-show-up-in-big-games/) **Published:** January 15, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/how-the-yips-show-up-in-big-games.jpg) ## Why Do The Yips Happen in Games? During the first game of the College World series game LSU pitcher, Jared Poche, had the yips. Two wild throws to first base seemed to set Poche off and it all went downhill from there, even his teammates started acting worse. *“It was a total collapse on a big stage,”* LSU head coach Paul Mainieri said. Poche admits that his over control and his one bad pitch led to more bad pitches which made things nearly impossible for him to finish strong. **POCHE:** *“I was throwing each side of the plate — fastball, curve-ball through the first time through the order,”* Poche said. *“I was definitely in command of my pitches and one thing led to another and I kind of lost command.”* Many are calling it the **yips** and attributing it to too much **pressure** for the first big game and that he couldn’t handle the **pressure** of pitching perfectly. The **yips** can come and go and once you start to over control your throws it seems as if the rest of the throws are in a downward spiral. As the yips are becoming more well-known, many coaches are realizing that it is mental and not technical as they once thought. The must approach the throwing problems differently and not just change the throwing action. *“I’ve been in this game a long time, seen it happen to a lot of great players,”* Mainieri said. *“It’s more **psychological** than anything else.”* TCU, the team they were playing against even made comments about Poche’s throws to first. *“We never lob throw,”* said TCU’s starting pitcher Preston Morrison,*“Even when you have time, either run it over, nice underhand flip or get your feet underneath you and make a strong 80-percent throw. It could happen to anybody, with the lob throw. In that situation I just think you’ve got to throw it regular.”* Many ball players are **embarrassed** when this happens to them and **yipping** a throw during the first big game was heart-wrenching for the team. Poche said he knew he did a bad job and didn’t know what came over him. What you don’t know what caused a dramatic throwing change, you have to look at the **mental game** as the culprit. However, coaches go to what they know to cure the **yips.** They **focus** on the mechanics and what’s changing in the throwing action. But the real issue if a change in the player’s **mental** state. The final score of the game was 10-3 resulting in a loss for LSU. The coach is hopeful that Poche will overcome the yips and be able to start as a pitcher in the next games. --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Why Do The Yips Only Come in Games?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-do-the-yips-only-come-during-games/) - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Baseball Tips --- ### [Rick Ankiel's Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/rick-ankiel-throwing-problem/) **Published:** January 18, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## Ankiel’s Loss Of Control Throwing Cardinals pitcher Rick Ankiel throws five wild pitches in the bottom of the third inning against the Braves in 2000. Ankiel was a pitcher with the Cardinals from 1999 until 2004, until he lost his ability to throw strikes without a problem. In 2001 he walked 25 batters and threw five wild pitches in just 24 innings… They compared his **loss of control** pitching to Steve Blass who also had a **throwing problem.** The coach didn’t look at this as the **yips** but just as him having a problem and they tried to fix it mechanically instead of **mentally.** After trying to regain his pitching form in the minor leagues, he switched to the outfield in early 2005. Check out the video below that has a summary of Ankiel’s wild throws back in 2000 when they faced the Braves. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What happened to Rick Ankiel’s pitching? Rick Ankiel was a pitcher with the Cardinals from 1999 until 2004, until he lost his ability to throw strikes. The page says he threw five wild pitches in the bottom of the third inning against the Braves in 2000, and in 2001 he walked 25 batters and threw five wild pitches in just 24 innings. ### Was Ankiel’s problem treated as the yips? No. The page says his coach did not look at it as the yips and tried to fix it mechanically instead of mentally. ### What did Ankiel do after losing his control? After trying to regain his pitching form in the minor leagues, he switched to the outfield in early 2005. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Ball Players Who Have The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/ball-players-who-have-the-throwing-yips/) - [One Player Who Beat the Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-player-who-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Solutions For The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/solutions-for-throwing-yips/) - [How to Overcome The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips/) - [Your Questions About the Baseball Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/) - [The Yips in Baseball Explained](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Careers](https://www.baseball-yips.com/yips-and-mlb-careers/) **Published:** February 13, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/how-the-yips-have-affected-mlb-careers.jpg) ## How Rick Ankiel Beat The Yips One of the most common issues faced by major league baseball players is the **yips.** The yips is a condition in which talented athletes fail to perform to the best of their abilities under pressure. Although this issue can be extremely **frustrating** for athletes, it does not have to be career ending. With the right **mental training,** athletes can overcome this condition and save their careers. #### One such comeback can be seen in the case of Rick Ankiel. In his first complete season, Ankiel finished the regular season with a solid 3.50 ERA and an 11-7 record. In the first game of that year’s NLDS, he threw a shutout for two innings. In the third inning, however, things started going downhill. He allowed four runs, four walks, and threw five wild pitches. After this, the **yips** began to ruin his career. He was eventually dropped to Triple A after suffering an injury. In 2007, however, he was brought up to play for the Cardinals. Between 2007 and 2013, Ankiel enjoyed a **successful** comeback career as an outfielder, finishing with a career .240 batting average and 76 home runs. #### Another player with a similar comeback story was Jarrod Saltalamacchia. Saltalamacchia began his career as one of the top catching prospects in the league. After a few years in the major leagues, however, he could not even get the ball back to the pitcher. After being demoted to the Triple A, Saltalamacchia sought the help of a **sports psychologist.** With the proper training and techniques, Saltalamacchia was able to reclaim his career and return to success in the MLB. One of the most famous example of **post-yips** comebacks can be found in the career of Steve Sax. Sax began his major league career in 1982, when he was named Rookie of the Year. The following season, however, the second baseman was unable to complete the most routine plays. Sax was able to overcome his issues, however, and went on to enjoy a **successful** 13-year-long career, during which he held the highest fielding percentage among second basemen and won two World Series titles. Although the **yips** may seem like a career ending malady, it is important to remember that they are correctable. With the right **mental training,** athletes can overcome this issue and go on to enjoy **successful** careers. #### Below are a few techniques that can help athletes conquer the yips and go on to achieve success: 1. Understand that you are in control of your yips. The yips are driven by internal anxiety and once the cause is addressed, the yips are perfectly treatable. 2. Use positive **self-talk** to **visualize success.** Believing you can overcome the yips is the first step towards doing so. --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [How Daniel Bard Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [Bad Cases of Yips in MLB](https://www.baseball-yips.com/bad-cases-of-yips-in-mlb/) - [What Are the Yips in Baseball?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Throwing Yips in Baseball Tips --- ### [Throwing Yips Put Bard's Career On Hold](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-the-yips-put-bards-career-on-hold/) **Published:** March 3, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/throwing-yips-put-bards-career-on-hold.jpg) ## Overcoming Fear From The Yips The **throwing yips** is no doubt the biggest fear of any baseball players and the most frustrating experience for players who can’t seem to break free of the yips. The **yips** doesn’t just affect your throws, it messes with your head. **Many questions circulate in your mind when you have a case of the yips:** - *“What has happened to me?”* - *“What is wrong with me?”* - *“Why can’t I make this simple throw?”* The yips feed off your fear of making errant throws or **consistently** missing the target. It is your **negative mindset** of fear, negativity and counter-productive emotions that make baseball player’s feel trapped in the yips cycle. Pitcher Daniel Bard was on his way to becoming one of the elite relievers in the Major Leagues but the **yips** put his career on hold. From 2009-11, Bard was a dominating pitcher for the Boston Red Sox from 2009 through the first half of his 2011 season posting a 2.88 ERA, averaging 9.7 strikeouts per nine innings and only 3.5 bases BB/9 in nine innings. Bard starting yipping in the second half of 2011 season and he has never been the same pitcher since. The second half of the 2011 season, Bard posted a 5.28 ERA in 28 appearances. The Red Sox tried to shake him out of the yips by converting Bard to a starter but he never regained his form and his ERA jumped up to 9.00. After a few starts in 2013, Bard was demoted to the minors and has made in back to the big league. It was the **yips** that caused Bard to lose *“faith in my ability to throw strikes.”* Bard was given a minor league contract by the Texas Rangers but he couldn’t shake the yips. In his brief Texas stint, Bard hit a new low allowing 13 earned runs over four appearances without allowing even one hit! Bard gave up those 13 runs by walking nine batters and hitting seven other batters. The **yips** issue has been difficult for Bard. **BARD:** *“I can’t lie. It wasn’t pleasant to go through. The one thing that I could do really well was taken away from me. There were some tough times, tough moments. You’re out there and you think you’re throwing the ball well but it’s not doing what you want it to do. It’s so frustrating.”* A veteran Red Sox scout commented on how frustrating the yips can be: *“It’s always tough to watch that. You see what Bard was when he was blowing people away with that 98-mile-per-hour fastball, and what he is now, it’s not something you can even wrap your head around. I’m sure the kid is going through hell right now and I’m sure he’s got a lot of people saying things to him. You wonder if he’s better off just escaping and going back to Fort Myers and working things out on the side, away from everyone.”* #### Tip to win out over the yips: Work smarter, not harder – I requires **“mental finesse”** or poise to win out over the yips instead of brute force or battling the yips. Fighting the **yips** by working on the technique of throwing only serves to keep you over-focused on the problem. Explore **mental training** options to win out over the yips: learning to relax or trusting you ability to make the throw or focusing on something other than mechanics. You can then apply the same **mental skills** to improve other areas of your game. --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Breaking The Throwing Yips Cycle](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/) - [Beat The Throwing Yips With Tempo](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beat-the-throwing-yips-with-a-little-tempo/) - [Face The Throwing Yips Head On](https://www.baseball-yips.com/face-throwing-yips-head-on/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Tips --- ### [Ankiel And The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overcoming-the-throwing-yips/) **Published:** March 12, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ankiel-and-the-throwing-yips.jpg) ## Overcoming the Throwing Yips in Baseball What do you do when one errant throw leads to another… then another… then another? More importantly, what do you think about when you make a string of **throwing** errors? Most likely, it gets in your head and you start thinking about what might happen on your next throw or you try to talk yourself through the mechanics of the throw. This overthinking is at the root of the **throwing yips.** Consciously trying to make that pinpoint accurate contributes to **yipping**… There is more pressure when you try to make the “perfect” throw… You may try to walk yourself through the throw in your mind and guide the ball to the target. #### This overthinking causes your physiology to change. Increased muscle and **mental tension,** changes your release point. When your release point changes from throw to throw, your results become inconsistent as well. You haven’t forgotten how to throw the ball or suddenly lost your ability to make accurate throws. It is your conscious thought is interfering with your mechanics and causes you to **yip.** The reality of the yips have motivated researchers to delve into the problem to study the process of the yips. In one study, Leiden University scientists Bruno Bocanegra and Bernhard Hommel examined the difference between exerting mental control (thinking yourself through a throw) and being on “autopilot” (just reacting and unconsciously throwing the ball). Bocanegra and Hommel determined that thinking about performance in the middle of performing a relatively routine activity impaired performance and could cause the yips. In baseball terms, when you think about throwing the ball in the middle of a game (a routine activity that you have repeated thousands of times over the course of years), you throws become less accurate. **Mental effort** is not needed to throw a baseball. It is already a habit you have formed through repetition. Rick Ankiel, Life Skills Coordinator for the Washington Nationals understands the **mental side** of baseball and how the **yips** can affect a player’s career because it altered the course of his career. Ankiel was a top left-handed pitching prospect for the St. Louis Cardinals before developing a debilitating case of the yips. Ankiel lost command of his pitches so badly that he was reassigned to the minor leagues and never regained his pitching form. To Ankiel’s credit, he reinvented himself as an outfielder, made it back to the big leagues where he played from 2007 to 2013. Now, Ankiel teaches players effective mental skills in order to perform optimally on the field. **ANKIEL:** *“A lot of it is dealing with adversity, a lot of it is dealing with performance anxiety, everything baseball players go through. Dealing with being out there on the field nervous in a certain situation. Self talk, self coaching, the language that they’re using with themselves in the heat of the moment.”* If you learn how to manage adversity and anxiety, you can take charge of your game and **overcome** the yips. #### Strategy for overcoming the yips The most important thing to realize is that your thinking either contributes to the yips or combats it. One double clutch or throwing error is not an indication of bad things to come unless you allow your mind to run wild. After a bad throw, tell yourself, *“It’s just one throw.”* Clear your mind. The great thing about baseball is that there will be another pitch and another opportunity to make a play. --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Solutions For The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/solutions-for-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Overcome the Yips Articles --- ### [Ball Players Who Have The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/ball-players-who-have-the-throwing-yips/) **Published:** April 28, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## How Do You Know If You Have The Throwing Yips? In “Mental Training Sessions with Doc,” Dr. Patrick Cohn answers your **sports psychology** and **mental training** questions about what the **throwing yips** are in baseball and softball. Visit [Peaksports.com](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/) and click on contact us to submit your question for Dr. Cohn to answer in his **mental game** videocast or podcast. **Here’s the question Dr. Patrick Cohn answers this week:** How do you know if you have the throwing yips in baseball? Watch the video to see what tips Dr. Cohn gives to ball players who aren’t sure if they have the yips or not. Unsure if **mental game coaching** is right for you? Call us today at 407-909-1700 to set up a free 15-minute session to see if **mental game coaching** will benefit you. Head over to [Peak Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/sport-psychology-training-athletes/) to learn more about our coaching programs! Don’t forget to [subscribe to our YouTube channel ](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports?sub_confirmation=1)to be updated on all our latest videos! --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Breaking The Throwing Yips Cycle](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/) - [How to Overcome the Throwing Yips Video](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips-video/) - [How to Fix the Throwing Yips Video](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-fix-the-throwing-yips-video/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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[Catchers Who Can't Throw Short Distances](https://www.baseball-yips.com/catchers-who-cant-throw-short-distances/) **Published:** May 4, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## Do You Have A Problem Throwing Back To The Pitcher? In “Mental Training Sessions with Doc,” Dr. Patrick Cohn answers your **baseball psychology** and **mental game** questions about the roots of the throwing yips in baseball and how to cope better with the **yips.** Visit Peaksports.com and click on contact us to submit your question for Dr. Cohn to answer in his **mental game** videocast or podcast. **Here’s the question Dr. Patrick Cohn answers this week:** *“I’m a catcher and I can throw down the line to second base accurately and **consistently.** Whenever I try to throw someone out at first or I have to toss the ball back to the pitcher, I struggle with my short throws. What’s the reason for this?”* Watch the video to see what tips Dr. Cohn gives to ball players who struggle making short throws. **Download our free report**: [8 mental game strategies to break the yips cycle.](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/) Unsure if **mental game coaching** is right for you? Call us today at 407-909-1700 to set up a free 15-minute session to see if mental game coaching will benefit you. Don’t forget to [subscribe to our YouTube channel ](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports?sub_confirmation=1)to be updated on all our latest videos! --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Avoiding Bad Throws Hurts Performance](https://www.baseball-yips.com/avoiding-bad-throws-hurts-performance/) - [Why Short Toss is the Hardest](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-short-toss-is-the-hardest/) - [Is Missing Throws a Mental or Physical Problem?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/missing-throws-mental-or-physical-problem/) - [How Do Coaches Handle the Yips?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-do-coaches-handle-the-yips/) - [Catchers Who Alter Throwing Mechanics](https://www.baseball-yips.com/catchers-who-alter-their-throwing-mechanics-in-games/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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Throwing Yips in Baseball Tips --- ### [One Player Who Beat the Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-player-who-beat-the-throwing-yips/) **Published:** December 2, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## ![Softball Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/one-player-who-beat-the-throwing-yips-1.jpg) ## Mental Strategies to Cure The Yips How do you go from **dominant** pitcher to a pitcher who has the **yips** and is anxious about pitching? This is the real life story of Lacey Waldrop, pitcher for the Chicago Bandits of the National Pro Fast-Pitch women’s softball league. As a junior at Florida State University, Waldrop had one of the best statistical seasons in program history. Waldrop posted a 38–7 record with a 1.13 ERA and 287 strikeouts and received several post-season awards: first-team All-American, ACC’s Pitcher of the Year and the USA Softball National Collegiate Player of the Year award. Waldrop was **dominant** and lead the Seminoles to an ACC title and the program’s first Women’s College World Series appearance since 2004. But something changed at the start of her senior year in 2015… Waldrop’s **confidence** started to wane. #### Sometimes players can lose confidence with one poor outing. During Florida State’s first tournament in 2015, Waldrop’s throwing motion did not feel as fluid and natural as it did in previous seasons. Waldrop started throwing the ball way outside of the strike zone, into the dirt or far over the catcher’s head. Some of Waldrop’s pitches were so off course that she hit the opposing hitters. Waldrop felt helpless and just couldn’t throw her best pitch for strikes despite the encouragement from her FSU coach Lonni Alameda. **WALDROP:** *“It would happen so often and I kind of freaked out. I asked \[Florida State\] Coach \[Lonni Alameda\] what to do because she could see what was happening and she told me I would be fine. I just kept throwing curve-balls and change-ups because those I could control, but my drop ball was my best pitch, so I didn’t know what to do.”* The **yips** appeared to have taken hold of Waldrop and the routine task of throwing the ball seemed like an arduous chore. The mounting **pressure** of having the **yips** just served to exasperate the **mental** issue. **WALDROP:** *“I had always put so much **pressure** on myself, and I think after having the year that I did my junior year, I thought I had to beat that and put even more **pressure** on myself to carry the team when I didn’t need to do that. I think that’s where it stemmed from and it was just too much.”* Due to her pitching woes and the **mental** struggles of pitching, Waldrop spoke to Alameda and **sports psychologist** to try and fix the problem. The harder Waldrop tried to fix the problem, the worse it got. **WALDROP:** *“I remember crying so many times. There was embarrassment, there was that feeling that I was letting the team down when I couldn’t throw a strike. I just felt really bad that I wasn’t doing my job and I just remember questioning why and trying so hard to fix it that it almost was counterproductive because I just tried too hard.”* Waldrop had her breakthrough when FSU played the University of Tennessee in the winner-take-all Super Regional contest. It was this game that Waldrop identified that she took back control of her mind. **WALDROP:** *“I kind of had \[the **Yips** in\] the first inning because I was walking a lot of people, and then as I went through the game, I started to completely feel like myself again. Even though we ended up losing, that was the breakthrough of me getting through it.”* Waldrop’s **persistence** paid off as she was selected the third overall selection in the 2015 NPF draft by the Chicago Bandits. In her professional debut, Waldrop displayed her old form as she tossed a complete-game, one-hitter against the Akron Racers. Waldrop uses her **yips** experience as evidence that she can overcome whatever obstacles land in her way. **WALDROP:** *“After seeing it go away, I realized that I can get through anything… Just knowing that if I can get through that, there’s nothing that I can’t do, on the field or off of it.”* Look at your competitive career… **How did you handle your performance dips?** Did your **mental approach** add to the problem or help you overcome the issue? Did you coaches help or hinder your progress? How would a new **mental approach** help you through the tough times? #### How to Handle the Yips & Performance Dips Ask yourself, *“Am I the only one who has experienced this?”* If there are other athletes who have been in your situation and rebounded, then so can you. You can learn from other players who dealt with the yips. What have you been currently doing that has worked or made the problem worse (overthinking, over-analyzing, tinkering with technique, allowing distraction to enter your mind, etc.)? Many athletes wait it out and expect their performance to return to normal. Don’t wait until your performance returns to normal. #### What can you do to overcome these contributing factors? Whether it is **relaxation** techniques, meeting with a **sport psychologist** or talking to athletes with similar experiences, think of some **proactive** steps you can employ to take back your mind. You have to [**break the yips cycle**](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) by attacking it at every stage. I’m working hard to bring you the latest **yips** busting strategies in a new CD program. Stay tuned… For now, go back to what’s worked in the past for you instead of searching for the secret–that might not exist. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Who is Lacey Waldrop and what happened to her pitching? Lacey Waldrop was a dominant pitcher at Florida State University and later pitched for the Chicago Bandits of the National Pro Fast-Pitch women’s softball league. At the start of her senior year in 2015, her confidence started to wane and she started throwing the ball way outside of the strike zone. ### How did Waldrop get through the yips? The article says the harder she tried to fix the problem, the worse it got. Her breakthrough came in the winner-take-all Super Regional against the University of Tennessee, where she started to feel like herself again as she went through the game. ### How should you handle the yips and performance dips? The article suggests asking yourself whether you are the only one who has experienced this, noticing what has worked or made the problem worse, such as overthinking, over-analyzing or tinkering with technique, and not waiting for your performance to return to normal on its own. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [How Daniel Bard Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Problems, Softball Yips Articles, Throwing Yips Article and Tips --- ### [Do You Have Throwing or Pitching Problems?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/do-you-have-throwing-or-pitching-problems/) **Published:** January 27, 2017 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/the-yips-do-you-have-them-or-not-1.jpg) ## How Can You Overcome Throwing Problems? If you miss routine throws or make wild pitches during games, you’ll should read article closely… I outline my philosophy about the **throwing yips** below. I call it the **yips cycle.** To overcome **throwing problems,** you have to attack the **yips cycle** at every step. You may recall my version of the **yips** **cycle**–see image below… #### The Yips Cycle ![Throwing yips cycle diagram from fear of missing again to over-control throw and embarrassment on a baseball infield](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/start.gif) You have to attack the **yips** at every stage of the **yips cycle.** #### The two most important things you must do to overcome the throwing problems include: 1. Free up your throw in practice, warm up, and in games. 2. Get beyond the fear of failure or embarrassment. **Confidence** will only return to your game when you can free up your throwing and learn to throw freely under pressure. However, in order to throw freely you have to overcome your specific fear about missing routine throws or making wild pitches. But a great place to start is with my [Baseball Yips Report](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/), which helps you the **yips cycle.** You might already have it, but if you missed my report, you can download it here: [Baseball Yips Report](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/) The next think you have to do is uncover the specific fear that you have about making a bad throw. And often the fear is not about missing per se, but what comes with missing–what I call the “*aftermath of missing*.” For example, do you worry about what teammates or coaches will think if you continue to make bad throws? Do you question if you should continue to play baseball or softball if you can’t perform up to your potential? If you can do these two important steps, you are much closer to throwing freely! --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What are the two most important things to overcome throwing problems? The article says to free up your throw in practice, warm-up and in games, and to get beyond the fear of failure or embarrassment. ### How do you find the fear behind a bad throw? The article says to uncover the specific fear you have about making a bad throw. It says the fear is often not about missing itself but about what comes with missing, which Dr. Cohn calls the aftermath of missing, such as worrying what teammates or coaches will think. ### Where is a good place to start? The article says a great place to start is Dr. Cohn’s free Baseball Yips Report, which helps you with the yips cycle. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Why Over Thinking Leads to Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-over-thinking-leads-to-throwing-problems/) - [Baseball Players’ Fears And Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-players-fears-and-throwing-problems/) - [What Are the Yips in Baseball?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) - [How Do Coaches Handle the Yips?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-do-coaches-handle-the-yips/) - [Ryan Zimmerman’s Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/bryan-zimmerman-throwing-yips-video/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Yips Tips, Beat The Yips, Throwing Yips in Baseball Tips --- ### [Catchers Who Alter Throwing Mechanics](https://www.baseball-yips.com/catchers-who-alter-their-throwing-mechanics-in-games/) **Published:** March 8, 2017 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## Throwing Problems in Baseball In our new baseball and softball mental game video, Dr. Cohn [discusses why some ball players go to a safe throw in games but throw freely in practice.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fvJBXB0GK5k) If you think you have the yips or know someone who may be struggling with the yips, contact us today to learn more about our [mental coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) for baseball yips. **Here’s the question Dr. Patrick Cohn answers this week:** Why do ball players go to a different throw in game situations compared to what they are capable of doing in practice? **Robert, a ball player’s parent, said:** *“My son is a catcher. He is 16 years old and throws 85 mph in practice, but in a game situation he is lucky to throw 60 mph… He over throws and under throws both to 1st and 3rd base. I’m not sure what to do… When he is not trying to be careful he throws like a stud, but in games he is so worried about making mistakes.”* #### *“What can I do to help him”* Fear of failure prevents ball players form using their normal, **confident** throw in games. What is the underlying challenge in game situations? Watch the video to learn more about what Dr. Cohn says about the underlying issues and what ball players have to do to regain confidence in throwing. Don’t forget to [subscribe to our YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports?sub_confirmation=1) to be updated on all our latest videos! --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) - [Why Over Thinking Leads to Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-over-thinking-leads-to-throwing-problems/) - [Catchers Who Can’t Throw Short Distances](https://www.baseball-yips.com/catchers-who-cant-throw-short-distances/) - [Rick Ankiel’s Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/rick-ankiel-throwing-problem/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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Problems, Throwing Yips in Baseball Tips --- ### [When One Throw or Pitch Can Turn into the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/when-one-throw-or-pitch-can-turn-into-the-yips/) **Published:** June 29, 2017 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## ![Throwing Accuracy](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/thorwing-accuracy.jpg) ## Letting go of Inaccurate Throws The **throwing** **yips** are a bizarre phenomenon for any baseball player. Most baseball players refuse to utter the word “yips,” let alone admit or talk about having the yips. It is as if mentioning the yips forever cements it into your body and mind. The truth is, if you gain a little understanding about the yips, you can de-mystify and overcome the yips. Let’s explore how the yips appear… **How can a couple of wild pitches or errant throws develop into longer-term inaccuracy?** *Infielder Jose G. had two throwing errors in one game.* *That is not unheard of in baseball but the one error came in the bottom of the ninth allowing the winning run to score.* *After the game, Jose felt embarrassed about his performance, feeling he lost the game for his team.* *The very next game, every grounder hit to Jose incited fear of another error.* *Jose gripped the ball a little tighter, aimed the ball trying for the perfect throw and double clutched several of his throws.* *Fortunately, Jose still got the throw to first base although the first baseman had to dig some throws out of the dirt.* *As the game progressed, Jose kept talking himself through his throws and his throws were getting a little more off target until finally he overthrew the first baseman on a routine play.* *That runner eventually scored and things slowly snowballed from there…* *Overthinking led to tense muscles and a change in Jose’s throwing motion because he was trying to control the release. This led to more errant throws until Jose lost all confidence in throwing the ball.* *Jose’s over thinking the outcome and his throw impeded his physical ability to perform on auto-pilot like thousands of times in his career.* Just like any challenge with the **mental game,** admitting it and talking about it is the first step to improving. If you understand what is at play when experiencing the yips, such as how your thoughts, **focus** and emotions keep you stuck in the yips cycle, you can break the cycle and play to your potential on the field. Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Brandon McCarthy had a case of the yips in 2016 after returning from elbow surgery. McCarthy’s control seemed to have vanished including one game where he threw five wild pitches in one inning. McCarthy averaged 1.5 walks per nine innings prior to his injury until the yips took hold. In a three-game stint, McCarthy issued 15 walks over just 8 1/3 innings in August. McCarthy was left off the playoff roster, but rather than wallow in disappointment and further give credence to the yips, he used that opportunity to become a better pitcher. **McCARTY:** *“The thoughts are there. It’s whether or not you allow them to take root, take hold. So I tried my best not to let that happen. It was simply, this is something I can work toward and get over, and I just kept it as simple as I could in regard to that. Let’s just keep throwing and see where I get to.”* This season, McCarthy seems to have overcome the **yips** to become the Dodgers second most effective starting pitcher on the roster and is throwing the ball with greater confidence and command. In a four-game span, McCarthy is 3-0 with a 2.25 ERA in four starts with greater command than the previous year. **McCARTHY:** *“I’ve been able to work on being not just a healthy big league pitcher but a good big league pitcher. I’ve had time to put in the physical reps and the mental reps and actually work on things.”* If you can understand your personal **triggers** for the yips, rather than ignoring the problem, you will be on your way to becoming a better baseball player. #### Tips For Beating The Yips: Instead of ignoring the problem, recognize what contributes to the yips, such as fear of embarrassment or outcome thinking. After you understand your personal triggers that contribute to the problem, you can learn to use mental strategies to overcome these triggers. Lastly, understand that any problem with the mental game is only temporary if you are willing to take action to improve yourself. Check out my new program to help ball players to understand and overcome the yips! --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How to Have More Good Throwing Days](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-have-more-days-with-good-throwing/) - [Is Missing Throws a Mental or Physical Problem?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/missing-throws-mental-or-physical-problem/) - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) - [How to Break the Grip of the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-break-the-grip-of-the-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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### [How to Have More Good Throwing Days](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-have-more-days-with-good-throwing/) **Published:** November 9, 2017 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## ![Keeping a Throwing Streak Going](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Keeping-a-Throwing-Streak-Going.jpg) ## Focusing on Bigger Targets For More Accurate Throws Jay wrote the following about his throwing problems in baseball: *“I’ve been dealing with the yips for about a year now and I’m at a point where I’m out of answers. I can go three days in a row without feeling any ‘yippy’ throws and then go a month where I feel I have to control every movement.”* *“I feel discouraged and don’t know what to do. I’m knocking on the door to the big leagues and am discourage that this might ruin it all.”* The good news is that you have made it to professional ball. And you should continue to follow your dream of playing in the big leagues. More good news… If you can go three days in a row without any yips or feeling **tense** with your throwing, that’s a great sign. Many players wait years to get help with the yips. After years of searching for answers and quick fixes, they make matters worse. You have proved to yourself that the yips are not a disease because it comes and goes. #### Usually, players tell me it gets worse when they: - Make a couple of bad throws in warm up, during practice, or in games. - Analyze and over think their throwing action. - Make physical changes to fix what they think is a mechanical problem. - Take in everyone’s suggestions on how to improve. - Worry about making another bad throw, which leads to tension and over control. Most of the time, your yippy feeling returns for a reason. Often, it starts with a bad throw or two. **You start to think:** *“Here we go again… throwing **tense** and **controlled.** I have a problem with my throwing.”* This is your first mistake, not the bad throw. This is when the problem solver in you wants to fix your throwing. But nothing is wrong with your throwing. The mind wants to **over control** your release. Soon, this leads to **over thinking** and getting in your own way. Throwing is a natural motion that you learned years ago, no need to relearn your throwing motion. How do you extend the length of the streak when you are throwing freely and simply? First, don’t assume something is **WRONG** after one or two bad or even marginal throws. It’s okay to make a bad throw, everyone does. Blow it off and don’t assume it’s going to be a lost day on the diamond. Second, do less, not more on the next attempt. This means less analysis, less judging, and less trying. Third, make the task simple for yourself. Instead of **NEEDING** to make a perfect throw, think about a functional throw, especially for catchers. This means **focusing** on a bigger target—not the center of the glove. What, did you say a bigger target? Yes! **You’re thinking:** If I **focus** on a small target, I’ll my miss will be small, right? **WRONG!** A tiny target leads to trying too hard and guiding. You want a big target to free up your arm to make the throw intuitively, which means letting go of guiding the throwing action. Next time you have a two or three day stretch of no tension or yipping feeling, keep it going by not over thinking something is wrong or talking yourself into feeling yippy after one bad throw. [For more mental game strategies for overcoming throwing problems, check out “Breaking The Yips Cycle”:](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Why Over Thinking Leads to Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-over-thinking-leads-to-throwing-problems/) - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Toss is the Hardest](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-short-toss-is-the-hardest/) **Published:** January 24, 2019 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Why Short Toss is the Hardest](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Why-Short-Toss-is-the-Hardest.jpg) ## Why Do Ball Players Struggle With Easier Throws? Trevor wrote me this week to say that the **fear of the yips** on the mound is not allowing him to enjoy the game… What’s interesting is that his pitching is fine during the game, but he struggles with warmup toss, bullpens, and the warmup between innings. *“I don’t have this problem on the mound, but there is a constant fear that it will happen on a mound. Even when throwing bullpens I’m thinking about the ball flying off (even though it hasn’t happened),”* Trevor said. **How is his throwing in the warmup? This is when the yips hit him…** *“For me, when I first pickup a ball I have the fear. When I try to make my first firm throw playing catch, it’s like my arm doesn’t have any fluidity. I often spike it into the ground glove side and sometimes sail it high arm side. In my warmup pitches between innings I have airmailed the catcher a few times,”* he continued. ### This is very common for ball players… They struggle with the easier throws, such as catchers who have trouble throwing back to the pitcher but can throw down to second with **accuracy.** I think catchers can throw freely when they rip it. *“I’ve literally tried every mental cue I’ve ever heard when it comes to throwing and nothing works. I am aware this is a mental problem. I don’t however know how to attack it mentally,”* he said. ### Why do ball players struggle with the easier throws? It’s counter-intuitive to say the least… My theory is that when you have extra time to think and abbreviate your arm action (in warm ups), that’s when you tend to **over think** and **over control.** *“Short throws are by far the worst. It’s the pressure and lack of confidence combined. If I can’t throw it as hard as I can like I can off a mound, there is no telling where the ball will go,”* Trevor explained. I also think with the easy throws, you’re **expected** to make those, which adds to the **pressure** and thus the **fear** of messing up. ### Here’s what’s helped Trevor with his throwing… *“For me when I make a few bad throws, I just say ‘screw it’ and chuck it until my accuracy comes back.”* He’s on the right track here because he stops trying so hard to make a good throw. Another counter-intuitive argument here. After the initial **embarrassment** of missing his target, his accuracy returns after a couple throws. Yes, a lot of the **fear** and thus over control is about avoiding **embarrassment.** To throw freely, you have to **stop worrying** about what others will think. Trevor probably realizes that nothing happens after a bad throw… No ridicule from teammates. ### Keep in mind that you don’t have to be stellar in the warmup. You don’t have to be perfect. It’s somewhat normal to feel a little tight until your find a rhythm. But if you start to **overthink** your throwing, **panic,** and **worry** about what teammates think, a tense warmup can turn into the **yips.** --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Why do ball players struggle with easier throws? Dr. Cohn’s theory is that when you have extra time to think and abbreviate your arm action, such as in warm-ups, you tend to overthink and over control. He also says you are expected to make easy throws, which adds pressure and the fear of messing up. ### Can you have the yips in warm-ups but not in games? Yes. The article shares a pitcher who was fine during games but struggled with warm-up tosses, bullpens and the warm-up between innings. It says this is very common, such as catchers who have trouble throwing back to the pitcher but can throw down to second with accuracy. ### What helped the pitcher in the article throw better? He said that after a few bad throws he would just chuck it until his accuracy came back. Dr. Cohn says he is on the right track because he stops trying so hard to make a good throw. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Avoiding Bad Throws Hurts Performance](https://www.baseball-yips.com/avoiding-bad-throws-hurts-performance/) - [Your Mental Game And Solving The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/improve-mental-game-solve-the-yips/) - [How Daniel Bard Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) - [Your Questions About the Baseball Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/) - [The Yips in Baseball Explained](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Throwing Yips Tips, Throwing Yips in Baseball Tips --- ### [Why Ball Players Go to a Safe Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-ball-players-go-to-a-safe-throw/) **Published:** April 2, 2019 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Catcher in a navy chest protector firing a throw from behind home plate, the safe throw and yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/yips-image-big.jpg) ## How to Overcome the Yips Josh recently wrote to me about his struggles in the bullpen when catching… *“I have recently struggled in, not only the bullpen, but throws to bases in practice as well as simply playing catch. Yesterday, my only struggle was in the bullpen, no problem during warm up. Do you have any advice as how to improve when I am in the bullpen? I am hoping to at least be able to throw the ball back normally with relative accuracy.”* This is a super common issue for ball players… But why would catching in the bullpen, not even a game, cause problems for Josh? It’s just warm up, right? **Having trouble throwing in the bullpen**, in warm up, and around the bases is all rooted in fear of embarrassment or what others might think. One bad throw leads to worry about making more bad throws and what teammates and coaches will think or how they might react. This leads ball players to go to what I call a “**safe throw**,” which you might think of as a soft lob. With the lob throw, you have less of a chance to look silly because less chance of embarrassment. But in many cases the lob starts to become inconsistent due to over control and thinking too much about a bad outcome. Sound familiar? “Right on Dr. Cohn, but what’s the solution?” you ask. The main goal when you have the **yips is getting back to throwing freely**, intuitively, and using your “normal” throw with pace. You don’t want to reinforce the safe throw or lob. This keeps you stuck in the mindset that you can’t use your normal throw and it’s feels safer to use the lob. ### How to Throw More Freely: First, you have to focus on hitting your target and not avoid a negative result, such as spiking the ball. Keep the images in your mind positive. Second, let go of the worry about what others will think if you make a bad throw–that’s too much pressure–and often irrational. Remember that your fear of a bad throw–and what that means to you–drives the over thinking and over control. Stop focusing on the mechanics of throwing or over controlling your release or arm slot, for example. And if you want more help with overcoming the lob throw, contact me about [one-on-one mental coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) for the yips. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Why do ball players go to a safe throw? Dr. Cohn says it is rooted in fear of embarrassment or what others might think. One bad throw leads to worry about making more bad throws and how teammates and coaches will react, so players go to a soft lob that gives them less chance of looking silly. ### Why is the lob throw a problem? The article says the lob often becomes inconsistent because of over control and thinking too much about a bad outcome. It also says that reinforcing the safe throw keeps you stuck in the mindset that you cannot use your normal throw. ### How can you throw more freely? The article says to focus on hitting your target instead of avoiding a negative result, keep the images in your mind positive, let go of the worry about what others will think, and stop focusing on the mechanics of throwing or over controlling your release or arm slot. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Ball Players Who Resort to a Safe Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/ball-players-who-resort-to-a-safe-throw/) - [Avoiding Bad Throws Hurts Performance](https://www.baseball-yips.com/avoiding-bad-throws-hurts-performance/) - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Baseball Yips: Your Questions Answered](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Throwing Yips Tips --- ### [Why Overthinking Leads to Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-over-thinking-leads-to-throwing-problems/) **Published:** September 12, 2019 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![New York pitcher in a gray uniform finishing his throw on the mound, overthinking and the throwing yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/yips-image-big.jpg) ## How to Throw Intuitively One challenge for ball players with the throwing yips is getting caught up in a cycle of **over thinking**. I think it starts the yips cycle. Ball plays will: Overthink what their arm is doing… Overthink their mechanics… Overthink what others might think… And overthink the outcome of a bad throw. All this **over thinking** starts the yips cycle and keeps players stuck, but they continue to search for answers—all in the wrong places. They don’t consider the mind is the missing piece. Here’s what Brett wrote to say about his situation as a coach throwing BP: *“My playing days are over, but I am now coaching and have a tough time throwing accurate bp and throwing to my players. I’ve just had a hard time throwing without any thoughts. I constantly am thinking about throwing the ball away, my mechanics, judgement, etc. If you have any advice to help, I’d appreciate it.”* This is super typical of players that are trying to regain control of their throwing action. Brett is focused on all the wrong areas when throwing. Remember, focusing on negative outcomes is what kicks in the fear. I’m not talking about just the fact of making a bad throw, but also the aftermath of making a bad throw such as: -Will I embarrass myself again? -Will coach pull me from the game? -Will I lose my starting position? -Will my teammates not respect my skills? Why is this so difficult to overcome? These fears are core issues for many ball players. For example, if I want to be seen as a star on my team, I would hate to lose star points because I can’t throw back to the pitcher or make a play at first base. How do you unravel this **over thinking** and start to quiet the mind? First, you have to understand what your core fear is about making a bad throw. What does this mean to your place on the team and how you think others will judge you? Second, you have to address this fear head on and start to rationalize with yourself about your fears. In many cases, your fears are irrational. Third, you have to stop focusing on what your arm is doing. I call this a hyper focus on your arm in space, which leads to extreme over control–and then feeling out of control. Instead, go back to intuitive throwing–just like when you threw the ball as a young player. If you’re struggling with your throwing this fall, now is the time to overcome this challenge. Don’t wait until you start the spring season to deal with it or hope it just goes away. And if you want more help with overcoming the lob throw, contact me about [one-on-one mental coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) for the yips. --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Baseball Players’ Fears And Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-players-fears-and-throwing-problems/) - [What Are the Yips in Baseball?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) - [Do You Have Throwing or Pitching Problems?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/do-you-have-throwing-or-pitching-problems/) - [How Can You Free Up Your Throw?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-can-you-free-up-your-throw/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) **Published:** October 22, 2020 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![baseball confidence](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/10-21-baseball-large.jpg) ## The Throwing Yips Are in Your Mind Don’t say the dirty 4 letter word… That is how most ballplayers feel about saying the word, “Yips.” When ballplayers mention the word “yips,” this sets in motion the very thing ballplayers see as their biggest **challenge**. How can such a routine throw, a throw you have made thousands of times become such a labored act? The physical act of throwing the ball is not the problem. The yips are a **mental block** that interferes with the smooth, fluid motion of accurately throwing the ball. Yet, most ballplayers who have the yips talk about the difficulty of throwing the ball: “I’m trying to control my throw,” “My release is too late,” “My mechanics are off” or “My throw feels forced and stiff.” When you attempt to resolve the yips through physical means, you miss the point and ignore the underlying **mental block** that causes the yips. When you are in the yips rut, you become preoccupied by your errant throws. You think about the problem on and off the field. The yips eat at you all day. The more you think about the yips, the more the yips take hold of your mind. You may even take less pre-game infield practice because you are just trying to block the yips from your mind. Unfortunately, keeping the problem “in the closet” puts more **pressure** on you in games, making matters worse. In games, you feel anxious, you don’t want the ball hit in your direction. The thought of having to make an accurate throw is overwhelming. The yips have been a problem for Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve during the 2020 playoff series against the Tampa Bay Rays. Even though Altuve is a six-time All-Star, Gold Glove winner and 2017 AL MVP, he made several critical errors in the ALCS that led to several runs for Tampa Bay. Altuve committed a combined three throwing errors in Games 2 and 3, contributing to eight Tampa Bay runs. After making no errors during the 2020 regular season, Altuve had four errors in the post-season and the frustration was obvious. ALTUVE: “It’s not easy. It’s not easy to do things against your team. You’re always trying to help your team. For me, to just not contribute, to not play good and help my team to win, it feels bad.” Houston manager Dusty Baker talked about the potential of Altuve having the yips and the **mental impact of the yips**. BAKER: “I don’t know what it’s called — you can go into a defensive slump the same way you go into an offensive slump, and the physical turns mental… You just hope he isn’t getting the yips, because invariably they come in bunches. I just told \[Altuve\] to flush it. I mean, this guy’s been awesome for us, and you gotta flush it and move on, or else it multiplies.” Taking extra fielding practice, working on your mechanics or pretending it doesn’t exist does nothing to remove the mental block of the yips. When you lose **confidence** in your ability to make accurate throws and your focus is on trying not to make errors, the yips take a stronghold in your mind. ### Overcoming the Throwing Yips: One or two bad throws does not indicate you have the yips. When you find yourself ruminating about the throws, overthinking your throws or over-analyzing your mechanics, you should try to keep it simple and go back to what worked What is the underlying mental cause? Worrying about embarrassment or letting down you team. What are the **triggers** that lead to your throwing errors? Do you feel like you are going to make a bad throw before you make the attempt? What mental skills or actions can you take to regain your **confidence** and **focus** on the field? You have to learn to throw freely again and not overthink a simple action–or what used to be a simple action. Taking a mental approach to your game will not only help you on the field, but you’ll also improve all aspects of your game throughout the season. Contact us if you need help with the throwing yips. --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How the Yips Infect Your Confidence](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-the-yips-can-infect-your-confidence/) - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [How Daniel Bard Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) - [How Perceived Pressure Contributes to the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-perceived-pressure-contributes-to-the-yips/) - [Think Less to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/think-less-beat-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg) ### Get Expert Mental Game Coaching for Yips! Master mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues with [personal coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). You can work with Peak Performance Sports Team via Zoom, FaceTime, or telephone. Call us at 407-909-1700 or contact us for more information about the different [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) we offer! ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/jon-lester-throwing-yips-video/) **Published:** October 31, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## Does Jon Lester Have The Yips When Throwing to First? On Tuesday’s “High Heat,” Christopher Russo suggests that Jon Lester’s issue with the **yips** attempting a pickoff at first base is overblown. Does he lose his grip on the ball or does he have the full blown throwing or pitching yips? For five years no one noticed Lester having trouble throwing to first base while he was on the Red Sox. On one of Lester’s throws to first base he stated that, *“When you’re not used to doing stuff like that, I just got a little overexcited and tried to throw the ball a little bit too soon.”* With the times he has been traded not one coach has mentioned the **yips** to him nor has it interfered with multiple teams wanting to sign him. Although he is a great pitcher he has had many walks and has trouble striking players out with his throws. Some say this isn’t a big deal while others are noticing that he does indeed have the **throwing yips…** --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Interrupt The Cycle And Beat Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/interrupt-yips-cycle-beat-the-yips/) - See our [Yips Article Directory](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips-sitemap/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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[Interrupt The Cycle And Beat Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/interrupt-yips-cycle-beat-the-yips/) **Published:** November 2, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/interrupt-the-cycle-and-beat-yips-1.jpg) ## Overcoming The Yips Cycle Do you **fear** making a throwing error? Have the **yips** made you **apprehensive** to take the field and lowered your overall **confidence?** The yips can affect baseball players of all ability levels. For example, the **yips** have altered how Chicago Cub starting pitcher Jon Lester plays the game. Lester has 127 wins over the course of his 10-year MLB career and has been pretty consistent ever since his rookie season. Unfortunately, fear of errant throws has caused Lester to yip when attempting to pick off base runners over the past several years. Lester’s fear of **yipping** is very pervasive. Not only Lester not attempt pick-offs, he avoids checking base runners altogether. Lester hardly ever attempts to pick off runners or even throw over to first to keep runners honest. Lester hasn’t picked off a runner since 2011 and once had a stretch of 66 games in which he never even checked a base runner. Lester, a left-handed pitcher, consciously chooses to not even keep runners honest by holding them close to first base, a task that should be relatively easy for southpaws. Lester also opens himself up for being vulnerable to bunts and stolen bases. The St. Louis Cardinals sensed Lester’s fear of checking runners and stole three bases in Lester’s Cub debut against the St. Louis and, still, , Lester never once threw over to first. In April 2015, Lester made two pickoff attempts against the Cincinnati Reds resulting in two **wild throws**. Lester tried to explain the **yips** away by saying his errant throws were caused by a lack of repetition. **LESTER:** *“When you’re not used to doing stuff like that, I got a little overexcited and threw the ball too soon.”* Even Cubs manager Joe Maddon has downplayed Lester’s **yips issues.** **MADDON:** *“It’s something that will get better. His work is very diligent, and I’d much prefer he worries more about getting his fastball where he wants and his cutter where he wants and all the normal pitching things. I’d prefer that would be his priority over the other thing. I don’t want to make this an issue, because it’s not for me at all.”* The **yips** can get into your head, create **fear,** change your approach to the game, lessen what you can do on the field and change the way you play the game. #### Fear is the biggest mental block which sets in motion the yips cycle… **Fear** of making an error and **overthinking** the throw leads to **yipping** (involuntary muscle jerks). Yipping results in errant throws and more fear and **over-**analyzing … and the cycle continues. The more times the yip, you run through the **yips cycle**, the more entrenched the problem becomes. The key is to **overcome the yips** to interrupt the cycle at each stage. #### Tip for Interrupting the Yips Cycle: Identify the best case scenario – **Fear** comes from ruminating about worst case scenarios. Fearing what might happen often becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. When your mind drifts, **re-focus** on what can go right *“throwing the ball on a line to beat out the runner.”* Thinking the best case scenario is a better **self-fulfilling** option and keeps your head in the game. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What starts the yips cycle? The article says fear is the biggest mental block that sets the yips cycle in motion. Fear of making an error and overthinking the throw lead to yipping, which results in errant throws, more fear and more over-analyzing, and the cycle continues. ### How do you interrupt the yips cycle? The article says to interrupt the cycle at each stage. One tip is to identify the best case scenario and, when your mind drifts, refocus on what can go right, such as throwing the ball on a line to beat out the runner. ### How have the yips affected Jon Lester? The article says fear of errant throws has caused Jon Lester to yip when attempting to pick off base runners, and that he hardly ever attempts to pick off runners or even throw over to first. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Breaking The Throwing Yips Cycle](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/) - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [How Daniel Bard Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) - [Jon Lester’s Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/jon-lester-throwing-yips-video/) - [Face The Throwing Yips Head On](https://www.baseball-yips.com/face-throwing-yips-head-on/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Article and Tips --- ### [Why Do The Yips Only Come in Games?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-do-the-yips-only-come-during-games/) **Published:** September 2, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/why-do-the-yips-only-come-in-games.jpg) ## Can You Throw Freely in Games? One big sign you have the **throwing yips** is when you can throw freely in practice or BP and lose control of your throwing action in games. So you can practice your throwing in warm up or the bullpen easily with full control, but why does your throwing control change when your get on the mound in a game situation? You obviously change your approach when you are on the mound in a game. **But why would that cause you to have the yips in a game situation?** Most players feel more **pressure** **to perform** in a game situation. Most of this **pressure** comes in the form of **worry,** worrying about what coach and teammates think or worry about **letting down** a parent with a poor outing. The **pressure** baseball pitchers feel often goes undetected from their conscious mind. They don’t know what prevents them from **pitching freely**. In the vast number of **throwing yips** cases in baseball, the fear and pressure comes from **social approval** or not wanting to feel **embarrassed.** Or wanting to look like the star of the game. **Both of these are the same issue just two different spectrum:** One player badly wants to perform well and they other fears messing up and what others will think. This is the reason the **throwing yips** shows up in games only–for the most part. Some players start to tighten up in their warm up or when throwing BP. The **pressure to succeed** and everything that comes with that pressure leads to phenomenon of over control. #### I call this the yips cycle. When you fear the outcome, you try hard to have a good performance. When you try hard to perform well, you try to be more perfect, which leads to over control of your **throwing action**. This over control eventually leads you to feel like you are out of control on the mound because you can’t hit your spots. In order to take your practice game to the mound, you have to uncover the real issues that cause you to tighten up and over control your action. Working one-on-one with a trained mental coach with experience with the **throwing yips** can help you uncover the underlying issues, as you will not find a specific physical technique to solve this problem. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Why do the yips show up in games but not in practice? The article says most players feel more pressure to perform in a game, often worrying about what coaches and teammates think or about letting down a parent. It says in the vast number of throwing yips cases, the fear comes from social approval or not wanting to feel embarrassed. ### What is a big sign you have the throwing yips? The article says one big sign is when you can throw freely in practice or batting practice but lose control of your throwing action in games. ### How does the yips cycle work? When you fear the outcome, you try hard to perform well and to be more perfect, which leads to over control of your throwing action. The article says this over control eventually makes you feel out of control on the mound because you cannot hit your spots. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Why The Yips Show Up Only in Baseball Games](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-the-yips-show-up-only-in-ball-games/) - [How The Yips Show Up In Big Games](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-the-yips-show-up-in-big-games/) - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [What Are The Throwing Yips?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Baseball Tips --- ### [Bad Cases of Yips in MLB](https://www.baseball-yips.com/bad-cases-of-yips-in-mlb/) **Published:** November 27, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/bad-cases-of-yips-in-mlb.jpg) ## Improving Your Mental Game To Beat The Yips Although all major league baseball players are undeniably talented, some seem to have a more difficult time performing under **pressure**. One reason for this is the **yips**, an anxiety based issue affecting mainly pitchers. The issue manifests itself when these pitchers or infielders attempt to pick off runners by throwing the ball to the first baseman and end up throwing the ball wildly in the wrong direction, completely missing the target. Throughout the history of the game, certain players have suffered worse cases of the **yips** than others. For these players the yips drastically impacted their career, causing early retirement or position changes. Although the **yips** are a treatable anxiety-driven issue, they can be difficult to overcome without the right **mental training for yips.** Long before the **yips** were widely talked about in sports, Steve Blass suffered a career ending case. In 1971, Blass led the Pittsburgh Pirates to a World Series victory. The following season, he played on the National league All Star Team. The next year, his career was ended due to the **yips**. After tripling his ERA and dropping to the minors in an attempt to redeem himself, he found he could not overcome the issue. His career was over. After an excellent rookie season, St. Louis Cardinal Rick Ankiel fell victim to the **yips** in his first and only game of the National League Division Series. In merely four innings, Ankiel threw nine wild pitches and walked 11 batters, breaking a record that had remained constant since 1890. After attempting unsuccessfully to save his pitching career, Ankiel resolved to finish as an outfielder. Although this issue can be difficult to overcome, athletes who use **sports psychology** to improve their **mindset** and restore confidence have a better chance of overcoming the issue. Mets catcher Mickey Sasser developed the yips in 1989, only two years into his professional career. After leaving the MLB, Sasser started working with a **sports psychologist** to cure his **yips**. Using the methods he had learned, Sasser went on to coach college baseball, using proven **mental training** to help players overcome the same condition he had faced in his career. Even though it can seem like a difficult issue to tackle, the **yips** are definitely beatable with the right training. #### Start with these tips to overcome the yips: 1. Realize that you are the only one you can control the yips. The **yips** are an anxiety driven issue and the only way to break them is to **improve** your **mindset.** 2. The yips are not a disease. **Believing** that you can overcome the **yips** will help you confront the **mental game challenges.** --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Who are some MLB players with bad cases of the yips? The article names Steve Blass, whose career was ended by the yips, and Rick Ankiel, who lost control during the postseason and later finished his career as an outfielder. ### What do the yips look like in MLB games? The article says the yips often show up when pitchers or infielders try to pick off runners by throwing to the first baseman and end up throwing the ball wildly in the wrong direction. ### Can players overcome the yips? The article says the yips are a treatable anxiety-driven issue, and that athletes who use sports psychology to improve their mindset and restore confidence have a better chance of overcoming it. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [How Daniel Bard Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [How The Yips Have Affected MLB Careers](https://www.baseball-yips.com/yips-and-mlb-careers/) - [What Are the Throwing Yips?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Players Yips, Overcome the Yips Articles, Throwing Yips in Baseball Tips --- ### [When The Yips Interfere With Pitching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/when-the-yips-interfere-with-pitching/) **Published:** December 16, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/why-do-the-yips-only-come-in-games.jpg) ## How to Overcome The Throwing Yips **Routines** make playing baseball much easier. Imagine if you had to think about how to hold a ball… Or your stance in the batter’s box… Or the act of throwing a ball… If you had to think of every detail of every act throughout a baseball game, you would become **mentally** overloaded and exhausted. That is why routines and habits are so important. **Motor memory** allows you to file away repetition from practice so you can act as if on autopilot. Habits allow you to **focus** on the more important aspects of performance such as game situations. Unfortunately, sometimes something invades your mind and blocks that reflexive action. For a pitcher, that invasion is called the **yips.** Just ask Los Angeles Dodger pitcher, Brandon McCarthy, about his recent problems **throwing** the baseball… McCarthy is 33 years-old and was drafted in 2002. In his 2003 minor league season, McCarthy posted impressive stats (101 innings, 125 strikeouts and only 15 walks). In 2004, McCarthy led all minor league pitchers with 202 strikeouts. McCarthy made his Major League debut in 2005 and, in his 11 MLB seasons, McCarthy has pitched over a thousand innings with 771 strikeouts. Imagine how many additional times McCarthy has thrown the ball considering his little league, high school and collegiate experiences. Everyone would agree that throwing a ball for McCarthy has become an unconscious habit and he no longer needs to think about all the details and mechanics of pitching a baseball. It is as simple as see the target, throw to the target. But for McCarthy, throwing the ball is not as simple as it once was and that **mental block,** or the **yips,** is more devastating than returning to pitch after major shoulder surgery. **McCarthy:** *“Coming back from Tommy John \[surgery\], you’re not worried your career is over. The **yips** was a whole different thing. \[With the **yips,** you’re thinking\], ‘I don’t ever know if I can throw a baseball in a competitive Major League Baseball game.’”* A task McCarthy has done tens of thousands of times, now seems practically impossible… When you have extreme difficulty doing something you have done with ease countless times, you begin to wonder what’s wrong with you. The answer is that nothing is wrong with YOU. The issue lies in your thinking. **Motor memory** allows you to perform without conscious thinking. When you start thinking about how to throw the ball or the mechanics of pitching, you create **mental** interference which disrupts your well-learned action. You turned a non-thinking action into something that you over-analyze. Think back to when you learned the skill of pitching… It was probably one step forward and two steps back. Once you honed your pitching skill, you started getting consistent results. **The answer to the yips is to not think.** Instead **trust** that skill you have trained to become a habit. **Related Article:** [Two Strategies To Beat The Pitching Yips ](https://www.baseball-yips.com/two-mental-strategies-to-beat-the-pitching-yips/) #### A Strategy For Overcoming The Yips Cycle: Remember that focusing on mechanics creates mental interference and disrupts your ability to throw the ball. And when you focus on the result of your pitch, this creates anxiety and muscle tension. Instead, you want to trust your motor memory and not try to release the ball properly. Focusing on your prepitch routine can help you stop thinking about outcomes. You also want to focus on the pitch and target, which can help you go on auto-pilot with your action. To break the **yips cycle,** you have to let go of the outcome, what others might think, and free up you arm so you can get back to auto-pitching. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What are the yips for a pitcher? The article says sometimes something invades your mind and blocks a reflexive action. For a pitcher, that invasion is called the yips. ### Is something wrong with you if you have the yips? The article says nothing is wrong with you and that the issue lies in your thinking. When you start thinking about how to throw the ball or the mechanics of pitching, you create mental interference that disrupts your well-learned action. ### What is the answer to the yips? The article says the answer to the yips is to not think. Instead, trust the skill you have trained to become a habit. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Do You Have Throwing or Pitching Problems?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/do-you-have-throwing-or-pitching-problems/) - [Two Strategies to Beat The Pitching Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/two-mental-strategies-to-beat-the-pitching-yips/) - [Why Over Thinking Leads to Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-over-thinking-leads-to-throwing-problems/) - [When One Throw or Pitch Can Turn into the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/when-one-throw-or-pitch-can-turn-into-the-yips/) - [What Are the Yips in Baseball?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Tips --- ### [Avoiding Bad Throws Hurts Performance](https://www.baseball-yips.com/avoiding-bad-throws-hurts-performance/) **Published:** April 25, 2019 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Pitcher in a gray road uniform in front of the National League scoreboard, avoiding bad throws and the yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/baseball-image-big.jpg) ## How to Not Think about Yipping a Throw Worry about the yips, making errors, slumps and bad games are mind clutter that can affect some baseball players for an entire season. Yips, errors, slumps and bad games can create profound, intense negative images that, once these negative images take hold, seem to lurk in your mind and be the only thing you can **focus** on for an extended period of time. Most baseball players have no difficulty at all recalling some of their worst games because the images are indelibly marked on their minds. Even if a coach tells a player, “Don’t think about that error,” it still replays in that player’s mind. “Don’t think about it” is not an good strategy to forget making mistakes, having the yips or playing bad in a series of games. It is no different than the age-old conundrum…”Don’t think of an elephant. Your mind immediately drifts to images of elephants. This is often referred to as “ironic rebound”. This phenomenon is a process where deliberate efforts to suppress thoughts or images only make the images or thoughts more likely to pop up in your mind. When you try to suppress negative images or thoughts, not only do those images come closer in your mind, you reinforce those images. When you get to that point, the negative images create more anxiety, stress and fear, making the images more even intense. Atlanta Braves pitcher Touki Toussaint tried the “Don’t think about it” strategy to no avail. Toussaint had the yips a couple of years ago in spring training. Toussaint tried to tell himself not to throw a bad pitch, but focusing on not throwing a bad pitch only resulted in throwing a bad pitch. Eventually, Toussaint decided to **focus** on what he wanted to do rather the negative/avoidance script that lead to poor results. TOUSSAINT: *“I legit had the yips in spring training of 2017. I couldn’t even throw it near the catcher. I told myself it couldn’t get any worse, and I started figuring it out. It was like, ‘Don’t throw it away. Don’t make a bad pitch.’ But you’d make the bad pitch. I stopped telling myself that and said, ‘Just throw the ball,’ and it started clicking.”* Toussaint’s turnaround was the direct result of changing what he thought about when throwing. Instead of fearing a bad outcome, he switched his focus on just throwing the ball or immersing himself in the process. Focusing on the failures of the past has never helped a baseball player advance their game or overcome mistakes, slumps or the yips. Thinking of the past keeps your head in the past and takes your focus off what is important to perform your best in the moment. Getting over the past is a matter of **focusing** on the present. ### Overcoming Yips, Slumps and Mistakes: Instead of thinking about what NOT to do (don’t spike the ball), give yourself a verbal cue of what you want to do as you make the play. You don’t want to think about striking out during your at-bat. Instead, you will do better thinking about making solid contact. For throwing, you might use; “just throw,” “hit the target,” or “see the throw and let it go.” Remember, the fear of making a bad throw will only lead to over control, tension, and worry. Keep it simple and think about the ball hitting the glove only. And if you want more help with overcoming the lob throw, contact me about [one-on-one mental coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) for the yips. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Why does “don’t think about it” not work? The article says trying to suppress a thought makes it more likely to pop up, a process called ironic rebound. It says trying to suppress negative images reinforces them and creates more anxiety, stress and fear. ### What should you tell yourself instead? Instead of thinking about what not to do, the article says to give yourself a verbal cue of what you want to do, such as “just throw,” “hit the target,” or “see the throw and let it go.” ### How did Touki Toussaint overcome the yips? The article says Toussaint had the yips in spring training and that telling himself not to throw a bad pitch only resulted in a bad pitch. He switched his focus to just throwing the ball, immersing himself in the process, and it started clicking. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) - [Why Ball Players Go to a Safe Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-ball-players-go-to-a-safe-throw/) - [Why Short Toss is the Hardest](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-short-toss-is-the-hardest/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/two-mental-strategies-to-beat-the-pitching-yips/) **Published:** December 28, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/two-strategies-to-beat-the-pitching-yips.jpg) ## Strategies to Overcome The Pitching Yips The **yips** can often be the toughest opponent a baseball player can face. With the **yips**, you never know exactly what to expect every time you throw the ball. At least when you face an opposing team, you can scout them so you have some idea what to expect when the game starts. You know the opposing team’s starter’s pitching arsenal, go-to pitch, velocity and tendencies. Most baseball players are **embarrassed** to admit to having the **yips** and find the **mental block** to be puzzling. Throwing a baseball is one of the most basic and **fundamental** skills for every player. How is it possible to suddenly have such difficulty performing an action they have done with relative ease thousands of times? Aaron Barrett was a 2010 draftee of the Washington Nationals and, soon after joining their rookie class affiliate in Vermont, Barrett came down with a bad case of the yips. **BARRETT:** *“I got booed one outing in Vermont because I threw eight wild pitches to the backstop,” Barrett said. “I remember someone screaming at me, ‘You play professional baseball?’ I mean, it’s embarrassing. I can’t describe it. It just happened. I just lost feel for everything. You see it happen, and it’s scary.”* Barrett was converted into a reliever due to his problems with control as a starter. Once he settled in the closer role, Barrett saved 26 games, posted a 2.15 ERA and compiled 69 strikeouts in 501 /3 innings at Class AA Harrisburg. With his **improved accuracy,** Barrett is hoping to land a consistent role in the National’s bullpen in 2016. #### How did Barrett overcome the yips? Barrett’s minor league manager Jeff Garber and pitching coach Franklin Bravo had Barrett take repetitions turning double plays at shortstop during practices. The speed of the double play reduces the amount of time you have to think about throwing the ball. It is the **overthinking** that leads players to be trapped in the yips cycle. In essence, Barrett tuned out his “thinking” brain and relied on what he has trained himself to do from an early age… throw the ball, one pitch at a time. Now that Barrett has overcome the yips, he can focus on attacking the hitter instead of where the ball may end up. **BARRETT:** *“You’ve got to have a ‘screw it’ attitude. I’m going to throw it through the target as hard as I can. That kind of attitude carries into how I pitch — one pitch at a time, I’m coming at you.”* The mindset you choose will ultimately determine if and when you over the **yips**. #### Two Effective Strategies to Beat the Pitching Yips **Strategy #1:** Arm yourself with attitude – Adopt a nonchalant attitude. Instead of worrying about the end result of your pitches **focus** on attacking the hitter. After the pitch, let go of the result and get ready for the next pitch. **Strategy #2:** Pitch swiftly – When you are in a groove on the mound, you take less time between pitches. The key is to pitch swiftly without rushing your mechanics. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What are the two strategies to beat the pitching yips? Strategy one is to arm yourself with attitude: adopt a nonchalant attitude and focus on attacking the hitter instead of the end result. Strategy two is to pitch swiftly: take less time between pitches without rushing your mechanics. ### How did Aaron Barrett overcome the yips? The article says his minor league manager and pitching coach had him take repetitions turning double plays at shortstop. The speed of the double play reduces the amount of time you have to think about throwing the ball. ### What mindset did Barrett use? Barrett said you have to have a “screw it” attitude: throw it through the target as hard as you can and come at the hitter one pitch at a time. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [When The Yips Interfere With Pitching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/when-the-yips-interfere-with-pitching/) - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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Players Yips, Throwing Yips Article and Tips --- ### [Tuning Out Mental Interference](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beating-the-throwing-yips/) **Published:** February 25, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/tuning-out-mental-interference.jpg) ## Moving Past Mistakes in Baseball There are so many baseball players affected by the **yips** (even though you may feel that you are the only one who can’t consistently make accurate throws). If you were to google the “yips,” you will find that it affects many different athletes and games-men: - dart throwers - baseball players - golfers - cricket - tennis players - basketball players, etc. #### Can you relate to the following experience? In LSU’s Game One match up against TCU at the 2015 College World Series, LSU pitcher Jared Poche inexplicably had difficulty **throwing** to first on two routine grounders. Poche retired the first nine batters he faced before his two errors eventually leading to poor command of his pitches. **POCHE:** *“I was throwing each side of the plate — fastball, curveball through the first time through the order. I was definitely in command of my pitches and one thing led to another and I kind of lost command.”* Poche’s two throwing errors were out of character since he previously only made two errors all season. After the game, LSU head coach Paul Mainieri talked about how the yips and the **mental aspect.** **MAINIERI:** *“I’ve been in this game a long time, seen it happen to a lot of great players. It’s more **psychological** than anything else.”* On his first **yipped** throw, Poche fielder a grounder and attempted to soft toss the ball to the first baseman but instead lobbed the ball well over his teammate’s head. The very next batter sent a comebacker to Poche who yipped again pulling the first baseman off the bag for his second throwing error. Poche’s teammate and fellow starting pitcher Preston Morrison was shocked by Poche’s errant throws because of the amount of repetitions the pitcher take in practice. **MORRISON:** *“We never lob throw. Even when you have time, either run it over, nice underhand flip or get your feet underneath you and make a strong 80-percent throw.”* So if you want to get over the **yips**, you need to get over the fact that the **yips** are mostly **mental.** It is that **mental** component that causes you to jerk or twitch as you are in the middle of your throwing motion. Just because there is a mental block when some baseball players throw the ball, doesn’t mean they are “mental.” **The yips are a product of a mental inference that got in the way of you making an effective throw.** If you can re-tune your **focus,** you can get rid of that **mental** static that causes errant throws. You need to understand that the **yips** are a blip in your thinking. Instead of fielding and just throwing, you field the ball and think about the throw while you are throwing the ball. Basically, you are trying to throw the ball instead of relying on your natural ability to throw. #### Strategy to Beat the Yips: Understand that your **throw** does not need to be perfect. You don’t need to throw it perfectly in the glove… there is an acceptance zone that will allow your teammate to field the ball. Concentrate on the natural pace of your **throw**. You throw should be quick with some pace instead of hesitant and deliberate. Focus on the pace of your throw instead of guiding the ball to the target. The **yips** are beatable if you take the right **mental approach.** --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Do other athletes get the yips? Yes. The article says the yips affect many different athletes, including dart throwers, baseball players, golfers, cricket players, tennis players and basketball players. ### What happened to LSU pitcher Jared Poche at the 2015 College World Series? The article says Poche retired the first nine batters he faced, then had difficulty throwing to first on two routine grounders and lost command of his pitches. His head coach said the yips are more psychological than anything else. ### What is a strategy to beat the yips? The article says to understand that your throw does not need to be perfect, because there is an acceptance zone, and to concentrate on the natural pace of your throw, quick with some pace instead of hesitant and deliberate. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Is Missing Throws a Mental or Physical Problem?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/missing-throws-mental-or-physical-problem/) - [Your Mental Game And Solving The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/improve-mental-game-solve-the-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) **Published:** February 8, 2019 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ankiel-and-the-throwing-yips.jpg) ## Learn How To Overcome The Yips See the target; Hit the target… Sounds easy enough, right? Throwing a baseball is just a matter of having a catch. You have done it thousands of times… in the backyard, at picnics, during practice, warming up before a baseball game and between innings. Despite being a relatively easy task, some players complicate the matter. Instead of the simple process of “see the target, hit the target.” there are many other thoughts that get thrown in the mix and interfere with the process. Thinking about velocity or mechanics or even fears about the result of the throw increase the chances of an off-target throw or the **throwing yips**. This over-thinking process is problematic and at the heart of the yips. The **throwing yips** are a mental block that interferes with the ability to throw a ball accurately and efficiently. The yips occur when a player overthinks how to throw to a target, analyzes what they are doing while they are doing it and worrying or fearing where the ball will land. A player with the yips has such a significant degree of mental interference that several physical things can happen: the body tightens up, the arm angle changes, the release point varies from throw to throw or the player double-clutches the ball. A player with **the throwing yips** will mentally image a bad throw slightly before they make the throw. A player with the yips often becomes so self-conscious of their inability to make accurate throws that they try to control every aspect of the throw, making matters worse and further embedding the yips within the mind of the player. There are many stories about major league players battling the yips, for example, 37-year-old pitcher Luke Hagerty… Hagerty threw 94 miles an hour as a junior in college and was selected with the 32nd pick in the first round of the 2002 draft by the Chicago Cubs and gave him more than $1 million to sign. Things were looking up for Hagerty as he had a promising MLB career in front of him. In his initial season with Class A Boise Hawks, Hagerty struck out 50 with an ERA of 1.13 ERA in 48 innings. As he prepped to step up to the major league level, Hagerty tore the ulnar collateral ligament in his pitching elbow which required Tommy John surgery. Hagerty missed over a year of ball and then it happened… Out of nowhere, Hagerty couldn’t find home plate and so, his battle with the yips began. In 2005 at Class A Boise, Hagerty threw 6.2 innings and allowed 23 earned runs, hit 4 batters and threw 9 wild pitches. After the 2008 season, Hagerty walked away from baseball. Hagerty compared the yips to suddenly losing the ability to write your name. HAGERTY: *“I usually tell people it’s like your signature. You know how to write your name. Someone gives you a piece of paper and a pen and you can write it. Maybe there’s variance. It was like someone gave me a pen, and it was scribble all over the paper. It made no sense.”* After a 10 year-plus layoff, Hagerty is making a comeback and signed a contract with the team that originally drafted him, the Chicago Cubs. Hagerty has already upped his fastball to 96.9 mph. This time around, Hagerty isn’t focusing on the yips. Instead, Hagerty is focused on his approach and being aggressive when pitching. HAGERTY: *“To me, it’s about the intricacies. If I can hit 100, that entails a lot of things. I’m healthy, I’m moving efficiently, I’m being very aggressive over and over again to allow my body to adjust and produce that velocity. And my mental space is good.”* The **throwing yips** is all about fearing bad outcomes while successful pitching is a matter of focusing on your approach to each hitter and executing a good throw. Let go of the outcome, focus on the process, and trust your intuitive throw. ### How to Throw More Freely if You Have the Yips Make it simple. If you notice you over thinking your throw, say to yourself, “See the target, hit the target.” This simple phrase can remind you to stop overthinking and re-focus your attention on your approach to each hitter. Remember that your fear of a bad throw–and what that means to you–drives the over thinking and over control. You have to let go of what others MIGHT think so you can keep it simple in the moment of execution. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What causes the throwing yips? The article says the yips occur when a player overthinks how to throw to a target, analyzes what they are doing while they are doing it, and worries or fears where the ball will land. ### What physical signs can the yips cause? The article says a player with the yips can have a body that tightens up, an arm angle that changes, a release point that varies from throw to throw, or a habit of double clutching the ball. ### How can you throw more freely if you have the yips? The article says to make it simple. If you notice you are overthinking your throw, say to yourself “See the target, hit the target.” It says this phrase reminds you to stop overthinking and refocus on your approach. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) - [How Daniel Bard Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) **Published:** March 15, 2018 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## ![Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Beat-The-Throwing-Yips.jpg) ## Focusing on The Target to Overcome The Yips Throwing the ball to a teammate is the easiest task in baseball… **OR IS IT?** Ask a player who has the **yips** how easy it is to throw the ball **accurately** and they will tell you an entirely different answer. The difficulty in getting rid of the **yips** lies in finding the right solution and there within lies the biggest issue. Instead of dealing with the **mental** part of the yips, players try changing their grip or release, use a safe throw, taking extra fielding practice, or reworking their throwing mechanics. When a third baseman suddenly has difficulty finding the first baseman’s mitt, it most likely is not due to a problem with mechanics. Even though an infielder going through a bout of the yips may double clutch, change their arm angle or alter their release point, the root cause is more mental than physical. In other words, **doubt,** fear or **anxiety** become so intrusive that the physical act of throwing a ball becomes a very difficult task. As errant throws become more frequent, the issue becomes pervasive and seemingly insurmountable in the player’s mind. You wouldn’t try to fix shoulder tendonitis by having knee surgery. Likewise, you wouldn’t try to solve your pitching woes by taking extra batting practice… But, for some reason, most players try to fix **mental aspects** of their game by looking for a physical solution. Chicago Cubs pitcher Jon Lester has struggled for years with the **yips**… Lester has pitched long stretches without ever holding a runner on first for **fear of throwing** the ball wildly past the first baseman. Lester has even tried throwing his glove with the ball in his glove to first base trying to throw out a runner. This preseason, Lester has continued to search for a physical solution to a problem that has deep mental roots. While Lester was on the mound in an exhibition game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, he knocked down a grounder up the middle, fielded it and, instead of making a routine throw to first or throwing the ball underhanded, he attempted bouncing the ball to first base to throw out the runner. The result for Lester was another wild throw between the first baseman’s legs, allowing the runner to advance to second. **LESTER:** *“Obviously, from the outside looking in, it’s kind of like, ‘Why can’t you do that?’ Like I’ve said many times before, if I knew why, the things wouldn’t be an issue.”* The “why” of the **yips,** the real reason a player becomes stuck in **the yips cycle**, is due to the sole **focus** on physical solutions, which only leads to **over thinking** and **over control**! A more effective approach to the yips is to examine the mental contribution to the problem. You have to learn to **focus** on the right cues, **refrain from overthinking** and over-analyzing each throw, and trust your ability to make accurate throws. Not only can working on your mental game help you **overcome the yips**, it can take your game from good to great! ### Try This Tip to Beat the Yips: Have a positive intention with the throw–focus on the target. You can’t execute a good throw thinking about not spiking it! Players get in trouble when they see all the possible places an errant throw can land and how it might cost a base or a run. Simplify your throwing. You body is well-trained to make a good throw, so get out of your own way… It’s a matter of see the target, hit the target. In practice, you can reinforce this strategy by repeating the phrase, “See the target, hit the target,” as you make each throw. Get started today with mental strategies to help you break the yips cycle! --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the one mental key to beat the throwing yips? The article says to have a positive intention with the throw and focus on the target, because you cannot execute a good throw while thinking about not spiking it. It suggests repeating “See the target, hit the target” as you make each throw in practice. ### Is the throwing yips a mechanics problem? The article says the root cause is more mental than physical. Even though a player may double clutch, change their arm angle or alter their release point, doubt, fear or anxiety become so intrusive that throwing becomes very difficult. It says relying only on physical solutions leads to overthinking and over control. ### What does Jon Lester’s case show about the yips? The article says Chicago Cubs pitcher Jon Lester has struggled for years with the yips and has continued to search for a physical solution to a problem that has deep mental roots. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Why Ball Players Go to a Safe Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-ball-players-go-to-a-safe-throw/) - [How to Break the Grip of the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-break-the-grip-of-the-yips/) - [Two Strategies to Beat The Pitching Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/two-mental-strategies-to-beat-the-pitching-yips/) - [Think Less to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/think-less-beat-throwing-yips/) - [Jon Lester’s Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/jon-lester-throwing-yips-video/) - [Your Questions About the Baseball Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Weird, Heavy, or Light](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-the-ball-can-feel-weird-too-heavy-or-too-light/) **Published:** August 17, 2017 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## ![Throwing Fears](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Throwing-Fears.jpg) ## How The Full Blown Throwing Yips Start Rick wrote to me about his 15-year-old son saying he’s always been a good multi-position player since he was very young, but now has problems with his throwing. During a tournament, for some reason out of the blue, he suddenly could not throw the ball back to the pitcher or 3rd base. *“He would flick the ball and it would land at the feet of the pitcher. After a couple of batters, the coach pulled him from the game,”* Rick said. Rick’s son reported that the ball just *“felt weird, too heavy, or too light at times.”* And all of a sudden, he became mechanical with his throwing. This spring, things got even worse… His son would literally stop in the middle of throwing motion when throwing back to the pitcher—he couldn’t release the ball. He would pump 3 or 4 times, before lobbing the ball back to the pitcher’s feet. This player has gone from a very valuable player on the team to someone that may get cut after fall ball tryouts. ### This is the start of the full blown throwing yips. Often it starts with a bad outing of throwing or making throwing errors… The **fear** of making more bad throws can paralyze players because they become **hyper focused** on mechanics and what their arm feels like. Call it over analysis, **over thinking,** or **trying too hard** to make a good throw. Players in this situation think that’s what is needed to get back on track. *“I have to think about making a good throw if I don’t want to make a bad throw.”* Sounds like the correct thing to do, right? However, this leads to over thinking mechanics of the throw (something that was natural to do) and thus the freezing. Stopping in the middle of the throw or pumping is at the height of this process. It’s too scary to release the ball. Catchers I work with will often just use a lob or safe throw back to the pitcher so they don’t make a bad throw that can lead to giving up bases for runners. What I do know about the throwing yips is that it’s not a mechanical problem, but that’s how most players try to fix it. **The problem is all about fear:** fear of embarrassment and not wanting to let down teammates or coaches. The fear is what binds up players and causes them to go to the safe throw. ### What is the solution? The solution is not easy because you have to attack the yips cycle at every stage. For example, ball players have to: - Let go of what they think coaches, teammates, and parents expect of them. - Focus on the process instead of worrying about the bad throw. - Regain their intuitive or natural throwing action, what I call free up their arm. - Overcome the fear of embarrassment of letting down others. - Regain confidence in their throw to help trust their natural throwing motion again. The yips are not a disease. Players don’t catch a cold and get the yips. The yips are not due to faulty mechanics. I don’t have any quick tips to help players overcome their throwing issues. Instead, ball players have to work to overcome the fear and learn to throw naturally or freely again. ### My two best options to help ball players with throwing problems include: 1. One on one [personal mental game coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) (weekly). 2. “[Breaking the Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)” audio and workbook program (included with person coaching). **Everyone asks me:** *“What’s your success rate with curing the yips?”* **My answer:** It’s not about “success rates” or “a cure.” Instead, the solution is education about the problem and developing strategies to learn how to cope with the fear and learning to throw freely. It’s not an all or none challenge. I teach players to be able to throw freely 50% of the time and then 75% with the goal of 95% eventually. If you or your ball players know it’s a mental issue, and not physical, you’re now receptive and open to working on the mental game. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Why does the ball feel weird, too heavy or too light when you throw? In the example in this article, a 15-year-old suddenly could not throw the ball back to the pitcher and said the ball felt weird, too heavy, or too light. Dr. Cohn says this is the start of the full-blown throwing yips, which often begins with a bad outing of throwing or making throwing errors. ### Are the throwing yips a mechanical problem? No. Dr. Cohn says the yips are not due to faulty mechanics and are not a disease. He says the problem is all about fear, including fear of embarrassment and not wanting to let down teammates or coaches. ### Why do some players freeze or pump before they throw? The article says the fear of making more bad throws makes players hyper-focused on mechanics and what their arm feels like. That overthinking leads to freezing in the middle of the throw or pumping, because it feels too scary to release the ball. ### What helps with the throwing yips? The article says players have to attack the yips cycle at every stage: let go of what coaches, teammates and parents expect, focus on the process, regain an intuitive throwing action, overcome the fear of embarrassment, and regain confidence in their throw. Dr. Cohn says there are no quick tips and that it is not about a cure, but about learning to throw freely. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How to Have More Good Throwing Days](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-have-more-days-with-good-throwing/) - [Baseball Players’ Fears And Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-players-fears-and-throwing-problems/) - [Catchers Who Alter Throwing Mechanics](https://www.baseball-yips.com/catchers-who-alter-their-throwing-mechanics-in-games/) - [How Throwing Errors Can Turn Into The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/throwing-errors-can-turn-into-the-yips/) - [What Are The Throwing Yips?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) - [Baseball Yips FAQ](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) **Published:** August 13, 2020 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Pitcher in a white and blue uniform kicking his back leg high after the throw, overcome the yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/baseball-yips-large.jpg) ## Using Your Mind to Beat the Yips The YIPS! My baseball career is over now. Have you ever wondered if the **yips** are a career-ending phenomenon? After all, once you have the yips, you always have the yips… right? Mystery surrounds the yips for many ball players. Players with the yips are baffled by their cause and how to **overcome** the yips. When you have the yips, you think about the players who had the yips and never bounced back. Players get so wrapped up in the yips that they unknowing perpetuate the yips cycle and compound the effects of the yips. You look for evidence to confirm your belief. You start rattling off names of MLB players whose careers were shortened when the yips took over their game. Your negative view of the yips keeps you stuck in the yips cycle… fearful of a bad throw, anxious about throwing the ball, muscle tightness, overthinking or over-analyzing your throw, bad throw, blown confidence… fearful of a bad throw and the cycle continues. When the **yips** are in the front of your mind, you feel trapped and hopeless as if there is no way to return to your previous level of play. Truth be told, you can **overcome** that frustrating feeling. You can overcome the yips. Conquering the yips requires that you attack the problem from a different angle. Instead of looking for players who never seemed to bounce back from the yips, look for the players that have beaten them and returned to their previous form or performed even better after their experience with the yips. When you see the yips as temporary, you have taken the most important step in beating the yips. One example of someone who has bounced back from the yips is Colorado Rockies pitcher Daniel Bard. Bard’s example is a testament that the yips can be beaten with a positive mindset. Bard had a successful return to baseball after being away from the major leagues for 7 years. Bard’s hiatus was not because of his lack of ability but his false assumptions about the yips. In 2013, Bard’s last season with the Boston Red Sox organization, Bard faced 87 batters, threw 11 wild pitches, walked 29 batters, gave up 15 hits and 12 earned runs. Bard described quite clearly his experience with the yips. BARD: “Throwing a baseball is supposed to be an automatic action. For someone who’s done it as much as I have, it should be as automatic as walking for anybody else. And it was, for a long time. And then all of a sudden, it wasn’t. Imagine something as simple as walking becoming something where you had to literally think of the angle of your knee, the pressure you’re putting into the ground — on every step. It would make walking very frustrating. It would turn into a grind. And that’s exactly what throwing became to me.” Bard was able to successfully return to the game by reinterpreting his mental experience on the mound. BARD: “\[The yips\] would raise anxiety and basically take away my ability to focus. The same physical things are going on. Heart rate’s up, adrenaline’s pumping but just your perspective on what’s going on makes that feeling either a really positive thing where it helps you, or a really negative thing where it crushes you.” Not only has Bard returned to the MLB, he also won his first game for the Rockies throwing 20 of his 25 pitches for strikes in his relief appearance. The yips CAN be overcome… And the yips CAN be **overcome** by YOU. Looking at the **yips** through a different lens can give you a better perspective and minimize the stress of throwing a ball accurately. ### Tip for Overcoming the Yips Worry about making a bad throw or pitch on the mound opens the flood gates to fear, future anxiety, and doubt. You have to start by focus on the process and a positive intention of the throw to alleviate anxiety. Instead of seeing the ball miss in your mind and feel the embarrassment of missing your throw, think about the shot you want to make and see the proper trajectory. Do not get ahead of the execution of the throw – the trajectory you want and focus only on reacting to that image. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Are the yips a career-ending problem? No. The article says players get stuck when they see the yips as career-ending and look only at players who never bounced back. It says to look instead at players who beat the yips and returned to their previous form, and that seeing the yips as temporary is the most important step in beating them. ### How did Daniel Bard come back from the yips? Daniel Bard had a successful return to baseball after being away from the major leagues for 7 years. The article says his time away was not because of a lack of ability but because of his false assumptions about the yips, and that his comeback shows the yips can be beaten with a positive mindset. ### What keeps a player stuck in the yips cycle? The article describes the cycle as fear of a bad throw, anxiety about throwing, muscle tightness, overthinking or over-analyzing your throw, a bad throw, and blown confidence, which leads back to fear of a bad throw. ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) - [Your Mental Game And Solving The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/improve-mental-game-solve-the-yips/) - [Baseball Yips: Your Questions Answered](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/) - [What Are the Yips in Baseball?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Throwing Yips Video](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips-video/) **Published:** December 14, 2025 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** In this throwing yips video, you will learn how to accept and **[embrace the yips journey](https://youtu.be/q1DZ7F83fZs)**. We discuss how to battle back from the yips from a mental perspective. Peak Performance Sports, LLC helps athletes and performers improve mental skills for success in sports. We work with athletes in all sports – junior to professional – via video mental coaching from anywhere in the world. Please contact us for more details. **[Video on how to overcome the throwing yips](https://youtu.be/q1DZ7F83fZs)** ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What will you learn in this throwing yips video? The video shows how to accept and embrace the yips journey and how to battle back from the yips from a mental perspective. ### Who does Peak Performance Sports work with? Peak Performance Sports, LLC helps athletes and performers improve mental skills for success in sports. It works with athletes in all sports, from junior to professional, via video mental coaching from anywhere in the world. --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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Effective Strategies to Conquer The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/strategies-to-conquer-the-throwing-yips/) **Published:** February 19, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/2-effective-strategies-to-conquer-the-throwing-yips.jpg) ## Overcoming The Throwing Yips Why do the **yips** have such a stranglehold on some baseball players? Why is it so difficult to break away from the clench of the **yips** and regain that freedom of just making accurate throws? Many baseball players view the **yips** in fatalistic terms. These players feel powerless to **overcome the yips.** The baseball lore of the yips being a career-ender looms over player’s heads like an incurable disease. But, for every baseball player destroyed by the yips, there are countless others who have **beaten** the yips. ## Are you really willing to allow the yips to win out? You may never be the same after experiencing the yips but that doesn’t mean you are worse off as a baseball player. Just possibly, the yips can teach you about the **mental side** of the sport and the importance of developing your game **mentally** and physically. In this sense, your ability to conquer the **yips** can prove to be beneficial by developing a stronger degree of mental toughness. Your newfound **mental toughness** can be applied to the other game challenges you will, no doubt, experience throughout your baseball career: - hitting slumps - serious injuries - managing late-game pressure - being benched - focusing during games - improving your confidence Cincinnati Reds’ prospect Tony Renda refuses to allow the throwing yips to halt his career. Renda is a young second baseman who split time last year between the AA affiliates of the Washington Senators and New York Yankees. In 64 games with the Trenton Thunder, Renda made 19 errors, almost one error for every 16 chances. Thunder manager Al Pedrique knows Renda has the skills and ability to make an impact in the big leagues despite having his bout with the **yips.** **PEDRIQUE:** *“He’s quick with his footwork. His hands are fine. He has a good idea how to play second base. I think right now it’s a mental thing, where he is thinking too much on the easy ground balls. I told him to just play through it, pick up the target and let it go.”* Pedrique is confident Renda can get the yips issue corrected and loves Renda’s attitude towards facing this challenge. **PEDRIQUE:** *“One thing I like about him \[Renda\] is that he knows what is going on, but he wants to play. A lot of guys in those situations, they want to sit in the dugout and watch the game. He told me ‘I want to be out there and work my way out. I know I can do it. It’s something that happened in the past.’ That’s something that we’re going to work with him and be patient with.”* Armed with the proper **mentality,** you too can **conquer the yips.** #### **2 Effective Strategies to Conquer the Throwing Yips** **Strategy #1: Instead of viewing the yips as a deadly, career-ending disease, see the yips as just another baseball challenge.** When you face a new pitcher, you normally watch your teammates facing that pitcher. You come up with your own strategy on how you will approach your at-bat. Even if that pitcher strikes you out, you take that feedback and try a new approach on the next at-bat. This is the **mentality** you need to conquer the yips. Look for your best angle of attack. **Strategy #2: If is best to fight fire with fire.** If the yips are a **mental** “thing,” then commit to improve your **mental game**. The good thing about strong **mental skills** is that you can apply them to other areas of your game and even prevent some issues from ever popping up in the first place. --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Breaking The Throwing Yips Cycle](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/) - [Beat The Throwing Yips With Tempo](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beat-the-throwing-yips-with-a-little-tempo/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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Throwing Yips Article and Tips --- ### [Beat The Throwing Yips With Tempo](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beat-the-throwing-yips-with-a-little-tempo/) **Published:** December 14, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/beat-the-throwing-yips-with-tempo.jpg) ## Mental Strategies To Deal With The Yips Have you ever had the throwing **yips** and wondered where they came from and how to get rid of them? Have you ever had the hiccups and wondered where they came from and how to get rid of them? #### There are similarities between the hiccups and the yips… The hiccups are an involuntary spasm of the diaphragm; the **yips** are also a spasm interfering with a player’s **throwing motion**… No one exactly knows the causes of the hiccups or the **yips** or can sense when they are about to begin… Many people having the hiccups try some bizarre methods to cure themselves of the symptoms. A lot of baseball players attempt strange methods to cure themselves of the **yips** extra throwing practice, changing arm angles, experimenting with different grips. But there is one huge difference between the hiccups and the **yips**… No one with the hiccups is so embarrassed that they don’t admit they have the hiccups… But baseball players with the **yips** try to keep the issue under wraps at all costs. Chase Headley had an error-riddled 2015 season in his first full year as the New York Yankees starting third baseman. Headley often **yipped** during routine throws to first. Headley had 23 errors surpassing his previous career high of 13 back in 2010. Twelve of those 23 errors were throwing errors mostly on routine plays. Headley committed 16 errors during his first 69 games for the Yankees in 2015 as compared to only eight errors total in 127 games last year. **Related Article:** [How Can You Free Up Your Throw?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-can-you-free-up-your-throw/) If you compared his throwing technique when Headley yips, he is **tentative,** holds the ball long, double-clutches, takes several steps between fielding the ball, then sails the ball. Last year, Headley was more **confident** in his throwing; he threw the ball decisively and with **conviction.** When making a bang-bang play, Headley threw the ball in one **fluid motion** relying on his mere instincts. Since there was physical explanation as to Headley’s change in approach to fielding, it appears he is dealing with a **mental block…** the **yips.** Though Headley alluded to the **mental** component of his throwing woes, he still tried to work on the issue with extra fielding practice. **HEADLEY:** *“I did the extra work, but it wasn’t one thing to look at. More than anything I had gotten to the point a little bit where I was getting caught in between. Hopefully it’s behind me and hopefully it makes me **mentally stronger.’’*** But the yips are an **overthinking** problem. Working on technique or mechanics often keeps you stuck in the yips because it forces you to continue thinking about the problem. In order to **overcome** the yips, you need to work on **mental solutions** to return to an instinctual feel for the game. #### To overcome the yips, try the mental game strategy: Instead of thinking about your mechanics or the outcome of your throw, **mentally** count out the **tempo** of the throw. After fielding, count 1-2-3 as you go through the throwing process. This will allow you to throw without over-instructing yourself during the throw. The key to overcome the yips is to **combat the fear and embarrassment** that you feel about making a poor throw… Learn how to develop a **strong mental game** and you will see **positive results** in your physical game. --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [2 Effective Strategies to Conquer The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/strategies-to-conquer-the-throwing-yips/) - [Two Strategies to Beat The Pitching Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/two-mental-strategies-to-beat-the-pitching-yips/) - [Change Your Focus to Beat The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/change-focus-to-beat-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Throwing Yips Tips, MLB Pro Players Yips, Throwing Yips Article and Tips --- ### [Does "Tapping" or EFT Help With The Throwing Yips?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/does-tapping-help-with-the-throwing-yips/) **Published:** January 30, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/does-tapping-or-eft-help-with-the-throwing-yips.jpg) ## **What is EFT “Tapping?”** **Emotional Freedom Technique** (EFT) works by releasing blockages within the energy system which are the source of **emotional intensity** and discomfort. An EFT treatment involves the use of fingertips rather than needles to tap on the end points of energy that are situated just beneath the surface of the skin. EFT often works when nothing else seems to. It is usually rapid, long lasting relief from symptoms. Many people have started to use this method for the **yips** in baseball, golf, and even surgeons. They tap on certain points on the body having to deal with which problem you are having and they begin with a firm tap on certain pressure points which can range from the face, hands, and arms to relieve **pressure** and can loosen these athletes up and get rid of negative energy. When ball players have the yips they **over control** their throws and are tight in their motions and tapping is believed to relieve this and help them stay **relaxed** when they go out and pitch or throw. #### What do athletes say about “tapping” in baseball? Jarrod Saltalamacchia was too proud to acknowledge that he needed help from someone else with his **yips,** which is a common reaction for ball players. He contacted a performance enhancement coach who worked with him on his yips by “tapping.” Saltalamacchia said that using tapping *“has been very helpful.”* The yips surfaced for Saltalamacchia after he had some surgeries and he said, *“It was a health issue that kind of grew **mental,** obviously, but I worked on it,”* Saltalamacchia said, *“I’ve got stuff I go through, but as far as I’m concerned it’s a dead issue. Are there going to be recurrences? I don’t think so. It’s one of those things that through my career I’m going to have to deal with, but I don’t see it being a problem. I don’t think about it. I used to.”* #### What does Dr. Cohn think about “tapping” to cure the yips? My view is that the **yips** are primarily caused by **fear of failure** and more specifically fear of **embarrassment.** My approach is mostly cognitive/behavioral to help athletes free up their throwing motion and get beyond the fear of making a bad throw and the associated embarrassment and disappointment associated with making a bad throw. Tapping can be effective for some athletes that like this approach. However, some athletes find that tapping alone is too simple and often awkward. How can tapping on your forehead help you improve your throwing control? These athletes often don’t see the relationship between tapping and improvements in their performance. They may view it as a silly, bizarre, or strange method. However, when EFT can be combined with other cognitive strategies that will help free a player from performance anxiety, it can be an effective treatment. You will find that there are many approached to help ball players overcome the throwing yips. Some approach might fail while others **succeed.** I did have a golfer contact me about his yips after having tried an EFT to tapping program. He said that tapping did not work for him and he wanted a different approach. However, EFT might work for you if you embrace the process and combine this with other cognitive-behavioral strategies. Personally, I do not use tapping or EFT in my mental coaching with ball players. Other mental coaches I know, exclusively use tapping to help players **overcome the yips.** --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Solutions For The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/solutions-for-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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EFT and Tapping Articles, MLB Pro Players Yips, Overcome the Yips Articles --- ### [Think Less to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/think-less-beat-throwing-yips/) **Published:** November 17, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/think-less-to-beat-the-throwing-yips.jpg) ## Overthinking Your Throw Do you have that fear of the **yips**? Or maybe you have committed several throwing errors but can’t figure out why? The **yips** may very well be the cause. The **yips** happen when you take a normally unconscious action (throwing the ball) and move it into the conscious realm (thinking and analyzing throwing the ball during the act). The **yips** can cause any baseball player to question their ability to play the game they once loved. #### The Yips Experience A common experience by **baseball players** going through the **“yips”** feels a lot like this: *You have made that routine throw thousands of times during Little League games with little effort…* *You field the ball cleanly…* *You have plenty of time to throw out the base runner…* *You set your feet…* *Begin the throw…* *Double clutch…* *But you can’t get the feel of the ball…* *You grip the ball so tightly that it feels like you have to force the ball out of your hand in order to throw over to first…* *And it wildly sails over the first baseman’s head…* *You say to yourself, “Geez, another horrible play!” But you are not surprised…* *In fact, you kind of expected the error to happen.* **Related Article:** [Change Your Focus To Beat The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/change-focus-to-beat-yips/) #### The Throwing Yips The **“throwing yips”** can make the best baseball player feel incompetent. The doubt in your ability to make an accurate throw becomes paralyzing. The “throwing yips” messes with your mind causing a tremendous amount of **anxiety, fear, tension** and **apprehension.** Most **baseball players** experiencing the **yips** know that it is primarily a mental issue but often fail to work to strengthen their **mental game.** Instead of dealing with the **mental block,** these players plagued with the yips hope that somehow magically the yips go away… but there is no magic solution! #### The Yips in Full Effect Pedro Alvarez, third baseman for the Pittsburgh Pirates, is having a difficult time with the **throwing yips.** In his five years in the Major Leagues, Alvarez has committed 110 errors at third base, most of which were throwing errors. Alvarez averages an error every five games over his career. Alvarez was tied for fifth in errors committed (23) during the 2015 season; all of those errors were from errant throws. The one thing that has prevented Alvarez from moving forward is his steadfast denial of the **mental hurdle** that few baseball players admit… the **yips.** **ALVAREZ:** *“If I could (identify the problem), it wouldn’t be an issue.”* Pittsburgh Pirates manager Clint Hurdle wants Alvarez to stop worrying about what others think about his fielding and just trust his ability to make the throw. **HURDLE:** *“We’re going to continue to **encourage** him to just keep working. Don’t worry about who’s ranking you here and what you’re ranked there. At the end of the day, that’s not who you are, that’s how they’re measuring you.”* Making an effective throw requires an automatic or unconscious action to a target. When you try to exert mental control, think about throwing or attempt not to commit an error, your ability to perform a smooth accurate throw becomes impaired. Thinking, or **over thinking** in this case, interferes with doing. You don’t need to think about something you have automated. When you over think your throwing action, the result is errant throws caused by the “throwing yips.” **When experiencing the yips, try this tip:** **Catch & Throw** – Think of how fielding requires quick reaction as the ball is driven off the bat. You don’t think of fielding it. The instant the ball is hit your body unconsciously moves in the direction to field the ball. You trust your ability to make the play. The same is true for the throw. If you give yourself less time to think about throwing the ball, you are more likely to execute an accurate throw. As soon as the ball hits your glove say the key word “throw” to focus on **JUST** throwing. Be careful not to rush the throw but don’t give yourself time to overthink. When you rely on instincts and not thinking, your body will do what you trained it to do… perform effectively, efficiently and optimally. --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) - [How Perceived Pressure Contributes to the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-perceived-pressure-contributes-to-the-yips/) - [2 Effective Strategies to Conquer The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/strategies-to-conquer-the-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Pro Players Yips, Pitching Yips Articles and Tips --- ### [Face The Throwing Yips Head On](https://www.baseball-yips.com/face-throwing-yips-head-on/) **Published:** October 30, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/face-the-throwing-yips-head-on.jpg) ## How Can You Move Past The Yips? Although the **yips** are most commonly associated with golf putting or chipping, the problem is now becoming more known across the sporting world. Currently, the yips have come to media attention that baseball pitchers are suffering from the **throwing yips** as well. Pitchers are faced with a tremendous amount of **pressure,** particularly when they try to pick off runners at first base. When a pitcher notices a runner taking a large lead off of first, he will try to pick him off at first base. Intending to complete the throw with both speed and accuracy, the pitcher often loses control of the ball, throwing it wildly away from the target. In these cases, players are often hesitant to admit that they are suffering from the **yips** as they see this as a sign of showing **mental weakness.** In the case of the Chicago Cubs’ Jon Lester, he and his organization have repeatedly denied the player is suffering from the **yips.** *“When you’re not used to doing stuff like that, I got a little overexcited and threw the ball too soon,”* said Lester, downplaying the issue. What he did not mention is that he has only had two successful pick-off attempts since April 2013. The issue has been consistently detrimental to his performance, yet the fear of admitting an **anxiety** related issue keeps him from improving. For many athletes, denying that the performance issue stems from their mindset bars them from making any progress in overcoming the problem. This is clear in the case of Steve Sax, a former Dodgers second basemen who suffered from a well-known case of the **yips.** Sax was able to overcome the yips after finally admitting that what he was facing was truly a **confidence** issue that can be overcome. *“I think once your **confidence** is restored, you regain the ability,”* Sax said. The **yips**, then, are not a permanent issue but an issue that can be resolved with the right **mental approach.** For athletes suffering from the **yips**, the first step to breaking the yips cycle is realizing that the **confidence** can return. After realizing this, athletes can follow a few steps to regain **confidence** and overcome the yips. - Remember that the **pressure** you are facing is internal. Only you can control your thoughts. - Increase **confidence** through recalling positive outings and throwing with control. - Focus all you attention in the present moment during the game. Do not allow external stressors to enter your mind during game time. --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [One Player Who Beat the Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-player-who-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Ball Players Who Have The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/ball-players-who-have-the-throwing-yips/) - [Ankiel And The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overcoming-the-throwing-yips/) - [Interrupt The Cycle And Beat Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/interrupt-yips-cycle-beat-the-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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[How Throwing Errors Can Turn Into The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/throwing-errors-can-turn-into-the-yips/) **Published:** July 28, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/how-throwing-errors-can-turn-into-the-yips.jpg) ## Don’t Over Blow Throwing Errors Has one mistake in a game led to another, then another…? After an error, do you fear making another one on the next play? Then you tighten up and over control your throw? This can be the start of a phenomena called the “**yips**.” Or what I call the **yips cycle**. The yips, for many players, seem to pop up out of nowhere, with no rhyme nor reason… You wonder, *“What the heck happened?”* You ask yourself those “*why*” and “*how*” questions in attempt to find your way around the yips but with limited **success**. If you were able to understand the origins of the yips, not only could you see yourself through a potential mentally-draining ordeal, but you could put the brakes on before throwing problems turn into the full-blown yips. In Major League Baseball, you will see many players who have experienced the **yips** to some degree. Steven Moya is a potential offensive dynamo for the Detroit Tiger organization but he is trying to work through his recent yips. Moya has been tearing up the minor leagues since 2012 and has received numerous accolades and awards for his offensive production. The Tigers called up Moya in 2016 in hopes of adding an offensive weapon to the roster but, not only has Moya failed to produce offensively (.130 BA in July), he has been a defensive liability. Moya has made 3 errors in just 25 games, prompting Tiger manager Brad Ausmus to send Moya back down to Triple-A. Ausmus has been careful not to label Moya’s defensive lapses as the **yips** but Ausmus has sent Moya to Triple A Toledo to work on his defensive issues in a “less stressful environment.” What does Ausmus attribute as the cause of Moya’s defensive woes? **AUSMUS**: *“I think part of it is he didn’t want to make mistakes. And as a result, you become a little cautious. And I think that can sometimes work in the opposite direction.”* Ausmus’ statement sheds light on how the **yips** appear, seemingly out of nowhere, for some players. #### The fear of making mistakes is the primary cause of the yips… **Related Article:** [How to Overcome The Throwing Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips/) Fear causes you to question if you can make the play… It leads to playing it safe and often turns into over control: manipulating the release, for example. Fear pushes you out of the present and causes you to think about the negative consequences if a ball hit your way… You then start to over-think during the throw. The resultant anxiety and muscle tension alters your mechanics and… there you go… the **YIPS**! But most players will address the mechanics and not the fear. This leads to more havoc with your throwing. To sum up, the **yips** becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy… When you **fear** making a mistake, you often end up making the very **mistake** that you were trying to avoid. #### Try these tips to nip the yips in the bud: **Tip #1:** Maintain a positive approach in the field. Immerse yourself in the game and trust your instincts. Turn your attention away from potential outcomes and follow the mantra made popular by Nike, “Just do it!” **Tip #2:** Understand that mistakes are part of the game. There are only a handful of MLB starters that have a perfect fielding percentage. One poor throw is an indication of some impeding disease, so get over it and move on. Avoid **FIXING** your mechanics–as nothing might be wrong with your form. **Focus** working through the anxiety about poor outcomes and addressing your mind first. [Learn more about the throwing yips with these articles!](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/baseball-yips-articles/) --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Avoiding Bad Throws Hurts Performance](https://www.baseball-yips.com/avoiding-bad-throws-hurts-performance/) - [Why the Ball Can Feel Weird, Heavy, or Light](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-the-ball-can-feel-weird-too-heavy-or-too-light/) - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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to Fix the Throwing Yips Video](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-fix-the-throwing-yips-video/) **Published:** November 23, 2025 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** In this throwing yips video you will learn what mental blocks continue to cause the **[throwing yips](https://youtu.be/KBdU0oSiDIc)**. We discuss how to overcome these challenges to throw freely again. Peak Performance Sports, LLC helps athletes and performers improve mental skills for success in sports. We work with athletes in all sports – junior to professional – via video mental coaching from anywhere in the world. Please contact us for more details. **[Video on how to overcome the throwing yips](https://youtu.be/KBdU0oSiDIc)** --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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Missing Throws a Mental or Physical Problem?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/missing-throws-mental-or-physical-problem/) **Published:** April 13, 2017 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## ![Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/throwing-yips.jpg) ## How Can Players Overcome The Yips? Baseball is a relatively simple game that players can complicate at times… **Overthinking, over-analyzing** and trying too hard can get in the way of doing certain skills that you have done since you were a little kid. Think about the act of throwing a ball… *You probably started throwing objects when you were two years old.* *In no time at all, you were able to throw to a target.* *After a few years of playing baseball, you started hitting the target with relative **consistency,** even while throwing the ball with a bit of pace.* *You probably have thrown a ball with **accuracy** tens of thousands of times… A pretty simple, straightforward skill.* *So why, after so many years of throwing experience, do so many players develop **throwing problems** with no apparent reason?* Let’s examine the not-so-uncommon story of 24 year-old pitcher Cody Buckel who developed the yips early in his career. Buckel is playing for the Double-A Mobile Bay Bears and trying to work his way back to the majors. Buckel was selected by the Texas Rangers in the second round of the 2010 draft and was the Rangers’ Minor League Pitcher of the Year in 2012. Through his first three seasons in the minors, he posted a 2.48 ERA, with 10.5 strikeouts and 2.7 walks per nine innings. Buckel was on the fast track to the Texas Rangers rotation. But Buckel’s MLB career was derailed when he developed the **throwing yips.** In 2013, Buckel was invited to major league camp but suddenly couldn’t throw a strike… And so were the beginnings of Buckel’s four-year battle with the **yips.** **BUCKEL:** *“I tried to take it up to 120 percent. I didn’t take what I did in 2012 and just do it again in spring training. I tried to do too much. I think that’s the beginning of the **mental spiral** of having the negative thoughts. Unfortunately for me, I think a lot.”* Buckel knew the origin of his **yips** was **mental.** Throwing a ball was replaced by thinking of throwing the ball, analyzing how he was throwing the ball and trying **over controlling** his action to throw a strike. **BUCKEL:** *“You are lying to yourself and thinking it’s physical or mechanical. Everyone is scared of the word **yips.** They never want to say it. It really never is mechanical. You just don’t move differently one day. It’s a **mental block.** Your mind doesn’t want to let you do it.”* #### How do players get over the throwing yips? The answer is simple but not easy to do. The simple answer is “just throw the ball.” Throw the ball like you have just thrown the ball since you were young. Unfortunately, when you start missing, you start looking for answers and **focusing** on mechanics, which only serves to prolong the **yips.** You can beat the **yips** by letting go of outcomes or the result of your pitch, quieting your mind and just throwing the ball. #### Try this tip to beat the yips: You have to go back to throwing on instinct or like a kids again, what I call throwing freely. However, this requires you to stop thinking about the negative outcome of missing a throw and what teammates and coach might think about your game. In order to let go of the fear of embarrassment or what others might think, you have to stop making false assumptions or mind reading others. This means you have to know you are a good ball player and person no matter what happens on the field… **[Get all my tips for breaking the yips cycle with my new program for ball players. ](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)** --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [When One Throw or Pitch Can Turn into the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/when-one-throw-or-pitch-can-turn-into-the-yips/) - [Why Short Toss is the Hardest](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-short-toss-is-the-hardest/) - [Do You Have Throwing or Pitching Problems?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/do-you-have-throwing-or-pitching-problems/) - [When The Yips Interfere With Pitching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/when-the-yips-interfere-with-pitching/) - [What Are the Throwing Yips?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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Baseball Throwing Problems, Baseball Yips and Throwing Problems, Overcome the Yips Articles --- ### [How Can You Free Up Your Throw?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-can-you-free-up-your-throw/) **Published:** February 24, 2017 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ankiel-and-the-throwing-yips-1.jpg) ## Do You Over Think Your Throw? What most players don’t realize is that trying harder to make a good throw or pitch is actually binding them up… Trying harder often makes ball players think more about how to make a good throw or have good mechanics when throwing or pitching. But if you are **focusing** on your mechanics, your mind is stuck in a practice **mindset,** not a game-time **mindset.** A hyper-focus on how your arm feel when throwing can actually prevent you from making a free throw. **When you focus too much on how your arm or hand feels:** - You are not reacting to the target. - You are focusing too much on mechanics. - You evaluate and judge how your arm or hand feels. - You are too bound to the details of throwing and over thinking. #### What’s the Solution to the Over Thinking? First, stop judging how your arm feels at every step of the throw. When you judge how it feels (if it’s correct), this leads you to make adjustments mid-throw when you feel something is not right. When you make those slight adjustments, such as with your release, your stuck in a practice **mindset** or analyzing and making compensations. Second, you have to go back to throwing **intuitively,** which means you have to look and throw without the extra thinking. However, this is easier said than done when your coach or dad is trying to work with you on improving your mechanics. #### The Most Important Step You must overcome the fear to free up your throw. Start by only **focusing** on the process instead of worrying about the outcome and aftermath (what others might think). The fear of making a bad throw is what keeps your stuck in over control. The mind wants to control your arm when you are under stress or afraid of poor results. The easy solution is to not think ahead, but at this point it’s hard to avoid worrying about what teammates will say if you miss. And that’s why I created “Breaking the Yips Cycle” Audio and Workbook program for Ball Players. You must learn how to overcome the fear AND free up your arm before you go to the ball park. [Get all the details about Breaking The Yips Cycle here.](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [Beat the Yips: Trust or Bust](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beat-the-yips-trust-or-bust/) - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) - [Ball Players Who Resort to a Safe Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/ball-players-who-resort-to-a-safe-throw/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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Yips, College Players Yips, Conquer The Yips Articles, EFT and Tapping Articles, Throwing Yips in Baseball Tips --- ### [Change Your Focus to Beat The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/change-focus-to-beat-yips/) **Published:** November 2, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![Baseball YIPS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/change-your-focus-to-beat-the-yips.jpg) ## Matt Garza And The Yips Ssssshhh… Don’t talk about it as if that solution has ever helped any baseball player who is **battling the yips.** Not talking about the **yips** means not admitting that it is an issue. Not admitting to the problem of the **yips** prevents baseball players from seeking solutions. So rather than admitting to having the **yips,** most baseball players **deny** its existence and hope it magically disappear. **Related Article:** [What Are the Yips in Baseball?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) Jason Giambi, a 20-year veteran, talked about how most baseball players have a *“don’t ask-don’t tell”* philosophy when it comes to the **yips.** **GIAMBI:** *“We really don’t talk about it as baseball players. It’s just this unwritten rule. You feel terrible for \[those experiencing it\].”* Garza, a ten-year veteran who was selected in the first-round of the 2005 MLB Draft, has had an issue with the **yips** when fielding his position. Garza was ALCS MVP in 2008 with the Tampa Bay Rays and, in 2010, pitched a no-hitter. Garza was a powerful pitcher but was a defensive liability due to errant throws and fielding a batted ball. In 2012, opposing teams took advantage of Garza’s **throwing yips** and bunted on him twice as much as the league average. Former MLB outfielder and teammate, Jason Tyner once commented on pitcher Matt Garza’s experience with the yips. **TYNER:** *“If you bunted on him, he’s throwing it down the right-field line. It wasn’t even close. You’d see him over on a back field working on it and it’d look like a 6-year-old trying to throw to first base. He could throw 95 mph wherever he wants to the batter, but he could not throw the ball to first base.”* The **yips** is not some deficiency, it is a **mental block**… a mental hiccup that interrupts the throwing process. #### The Hiccups and the Yips Have A Lot in Common: - Both the hiccups and the yips involve an involuntary spasm. - Both have no obvious cause. - Neither have quick fixes. Cleveland Indians **Sport Psychologist** Dr. Charlie Maher refers to the yips as a “misplaced **focus.”** **MAHER:** *“If their **focus** really is misplaced, it’s on results. It’s on what people are thinking. It gets them away from the fluidity of the process of the game. As a result, it snowballs. They start to judge themselves. They start to tense themselves up. The end result is that the ball is not going where it’s supposed to go.”* You need to let go of the **fear** of making **mistakes,** fear of being negatively judged by others and thoughts of, *“What the heck is wrong with me?”* **Baseball players** get in trouble when they field the ball, think about the throw, and then throw the ball. If you **focus** on the present immersing yourself in the moment where you *“field the ball, throw the ball,”* you can gradually return to your previous form. #### Try This Tip to Beat the Yips by Changing your Focus: Elite track & field hurdlers **focus** not on the hurdle itself when they run but slightly above the hurdle. The same type of **focus** can help you beat the **mental hurdle of the yips**. You need to switch **focus** from “thinking” mode to “doing” mode. You should practice relaxing and maintaining **focus.** Before fielding a ball in practice repeat these cue words **“Relax-Catch-Throw”** after you complete the throw accept the result and move on. Make it a habit to rely on your instincts instead of hoping your ball to the target. --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Beat the Yips: Trust or Bust](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beat-the-yips-trust-or-bust/) - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [One Player Who Beat the Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-player-who-beat-the-throwing-yips/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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Baseball Tips --- ### [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) **Published:** June 16, 2022 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** [![Overthinking and Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/yips-image-big.jpg)](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/yips-image-big.jpg) ## McWilliams Gets a Brand New Start in San Diego What is the most feared four-letter word in baseball? The answer is **YIPS**! The yips have ended the careers of many baseball players. Players who were once All-Stars have been relegated to the bench because of the yips. Pitchers who were once considered elite prospects have quit the game altogether. The thought of the **yips** can cause doubts within some players and ruin their season. How can the yips be so destructive? Think of an everyday activity you have performed repeatedly, then inexplicably and suddenly, you had difficulty performing that task, such as driving a car. It’s hard to imagine. Imagine having the yips… You have thrown the ball thousands of times without thinking about mechanics or hitting your mark. You just throw the ball. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, throwing the ball accurately seems impossible. The fear and embarrassment of throwing the ball wild fuels the problem. Then the game-day arrives. Everyone is watching you. Your team depends on you. Beads of sweat are running down your forehead. Your heart is pounding. “I hope I don’t mess up” are practically your only thoughts. You grip the ball a little tighter. You feel your forearm tense. As you release the ball, you try to guide it to the target, but your throw is way off the mark once again. Your next thought is, “I will never throw the ball accurately again. I hope the coach pulls me out of the game. I want to go home.” That is the internal experience of a ball player with the **yips**, and it’s downright maddening. Most of the time, you hear stories of players who never regained their form after having the yips. However, many players have had a bout of the yips and have overcome them. Bouncing back from the yips is more mental than physical. A focus on the process and not the outcome. Moving away from conscious thought to throwing with trust. Free-agent pitcher Sam McWilliams has been working his way back from the yips that took hold of him in 2021. Sam McWilliams signed a $750,000 contract before even throwing a pitch at the major league level. McWilliams was on Sports Illustrated’s cover and described as the new wave of pitchers with attractive analytic numbers. However, things didn’t go according to plan. McWilliams failed to make the roster for the Mets and was designated for reassignment. By May, McWilliams posted a 10.80 ERA with eight walks in his first 8 1/3 innings in Triple-A. The yips were winning. Eventually, McWilliams received a brand new start when San Diego picked him up. McWilliams walked 27 batters in 22 1/3 innings at Triple-A El Paso and was outrighted to Double-A, where he finished his season. McWILLIAMS: *“I kind of lost all faith in my ability… As someone who has done it their whole life, one day you’re nervous to play catch? It’s such a weird feeling. I’ve always been a guy that’s never had a problem working within the strike zone. It was such a strange feeling like, ‘Why can’t I do this? I’ve done it my whole life. Then you really just start to kind of dig too deep and let it weigh on you. And then it just snowballs into; I guess you’d call it the yips.”* After the season, McWilliams took a month off. After a while, McWilliams started playing catch with his coach and good friend Tyler Zombro. McWilliams seemed to hit the target every time and felt a sense of relief from the yips. Often, over thinking is the culprit. When you have a catch, you don’t think about the act of throwing at all. You trust you will throw accurately. Even if you sail a ball, you dismiss it as a bad throw. Changing your thought process and focus is the mental strategy many major leagues use to bounce back from the yips, and you can too. ### **Bouncing Back from the Yips:** Before each pitch, take a deep breath and visualize the pitch hitting the catcher’s mitt. Avoid judging or focusing on your arm as that leads to over thinking Make sure you have a positive intention for every pitch. Let go of analyzing what might happen. Flip the autopilot switch and throw the ball to a target! --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How Daniel Bard Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) - [Beat the Yips: Trust or Bust](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beat-the-yips-trust-or-bust/) - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) --- ### Get Yip Coaching From the Experts **Mental game coaching** helps ball players learn how to overcome the yips and throw freely again. You can improve your mental game with Peaksports’ Mental Game Coaches in one-on-one sessions from anywhere in the world via telephone, Zoom, or FaceTime. **One-on-one mental game coaching** is the fastest and most effective method to throw freely again and get beyond the yips cycle. Contact us for more details about yips coaching via zoom. Schedule a free Introductory session with Peak Performance Sports today: [BOOK AN INTRO SESSION](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. 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in Baseball Tips --- ### [Baseball Players' Fears And Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-players-fears-and-throwing-problems/) **Published:** September 13, 2017 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## Common Fears For Ball Players With Throwing Yips In our Sessions With Doc video series, Dr. Patrick Cohn talks about [his philosophy about the yips cycle](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yEFdWuKa7cc). If you think you have the yips or know someone who may be struggling with the yips, contact us today to learn more about our [mental coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) for baseball yips. **Here’s the question Dr. Patrick Cohn answers this week:** Do you struggle with throwing down to 2nd base or simply throwing balls in a baseball game? **Jason said:** *“I grew up playing baseball my whole life. I get nervous when I even just think about throwing and when I try to throw hard at my target I throw it in the dirt or over the person’s head. How do I get over this?”* #### In this video you’ll learn: The fears that cause you to throw a ball into the dirt or throw it over the pitchers head or the 1st baseman’s head unexpectedly. We call this the throwing yips in baseball. What are the Yips? Watch the video to learn more about the yips and what Dr. Cohn **[says you can do to get relief and throw freely again.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2eC0v7Z7oIY "says you can do to get relief and throw freely again.")** Don’t forget to [subscribe to our YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports?sub_confirmation=1) to be updated on all our latest videos! --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Why Over Thinking Leads to Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-over-thinking-leads-to-throwing-problems/) - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [Why the Ball Can Feel Weird, Heavy, or Light](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-the-ball-can-feel-weird-too-heavy-or-too-light/) - [Catchers Who Can’t Throw Short Distances](https://www.baseball-yips.com/catchers-who-cant-throw-short-distances/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/solutions-for-throwing-yips/) **Published:** February 8, 2017 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## Does Changing Mechanics Help The Yips? Next week, we’ll have copied of a new program for ball players with throwing problems called, “Breaking The Yips Cycle: Mental Strategies To Improve Confidence And Throw Freely Again.” For now, in our new video series, Dr. Cohn discusses [why changing mechanics is not a solution for the yips–and why this can keep your stuck in the yips cycle.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pgyhcCLFNk) If you think you have the yips or know someone who may be struggling with the yips, contact us today to learn more about our [mental coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) for baseball yips. **Here’s the question Dr. Patrick Cohn answers this week:** Do you have a coach that wants to change your mechanics because they see you throwing without accuracy in games? Changing mechanics will not help you over come the yips… The yips are not a mechanical problem. **Watch the video to learn more about why Dr. Cohn says changing mechanics is not a solution to overcome the yips.** Don’t forget to [subscribe to our YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports?sub_confirmation=1) to be updated on all our latest videos! --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Breaking The Throwing Yips Cycle](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/) - [How to Overcome the Throwing Yips Video](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips-video/) - [How to Fix the Throwing Yips Video](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-fix-the-throwing-yips-video/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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Throwing Yips in Baseball Tips --- ### [Why The Yips Show Up Only in Baseball Games](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-the-yips-show-up-only-in-ball-games/) **Published:** December 7, 2016 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## How Can Pressure Cause Throwing Problems? In our new video series, Dr. Patrick Cohn talks about [the throwing yips in baseball](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsO5SXOoVEc). If you think you have the yips or know someone who may be struggling with the yips, contact us today to learn more about our [mental coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) for baseball yips. **Here’s the question Dr. Patrick Cohn answers this week:** Why is your control and **accuracy** not as good in games as it is in a practice setting? Possibly because you have the yips! Often with the yips, you can throw **freely** when it doesn’t count. **Why does pressure affect your throwing?** Watch the video to see what Dr. Cohn says about game time pressure and your throwing. Don’t forget to [subscribe to our YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/user/MindsetForSports?sub_confirmation=1) to be updated on all our latest videos! --- ### Related Baseball Articles: - [How The Yips Show Up In Big Games](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-the-yips-show-up-in-big-games/) - [Why Do The Yips Only Come in Games?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-do-the-yips-only-come-during-games/) - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) --- ### ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Baseball-Yips-CD-250.jpg)Breaking The Yips Cycle Audio If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, this is a mental game issue and not a physical challenge! [The Yips Cycle](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/) is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in overthinking and over control… Learn to throw or pitch freely again with my proven audio and workbook program! [MORE DETAILS](https://www.peaksports.com/overcome-throwing-yips/)[BUY NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/collections/sports-specific-programs-digital/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6239ee1eafee4d6dadb49fb8d946e1fe94dc55a9943a1eb2b4281e09fac2b028?s=300&d=mm&r=g) Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychology expert and Ph.D. with 40 years of experience coaching 1,000+ athletes, including NFL and PGA Tour, MLB, Motorsports, and Olympics athletes. He founded Peak Performance Sports in 1996 and has published 25+ books and workbooks on mental performance training. Peak Performance Sports, LLC is a leader in helping ball player with the yips. [See Full Bio](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [ ![social network 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Throwing Yips in Baseball Tips --- ## Pages ### [Home](https://www.baseball-yips.com/) **Published:** August 21, 2020 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** # Beat the Baseball Yips and Throw Freely Again Is your son or daughter suddenly struggling to make routine throws? Sports psychology coach Dr. Patrick Cohn and his trained mental performance coaches help baseball and softball players throw freely again. Do you struggle with your control when throwing or pitching? Do you feel you are not in control of your throwing arm? Learn to throw freely again. Start today by downloading a[ **Free Throwing Yips Report>>**](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/) Featured In ![Yips Expert](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/logos2.png) ![Yips Cure](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/logos4.png) ![Baseball Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/logos3.png) ![Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/logos5.png) ![Baseball Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/logos6.png) ## Learn to Throw Freely ### GET COACHING Get expert yips mental game coaching with one of our certified mental performance coaches! Improve your control and velo with video coaching from anywhere in the world! [MENTAL COACHING](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) ### AUDIO PROGRAM **Breaking the Yips Cycle** Audio and Workbook program helps ball players learn how to free up their throwing. The yips can **take all the fun out** of your ball game. [SEE AUDIO PROGRAM](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/) ### READ ARTICLES Read **baseball yips articles** to learn more about how the yips develop and how you can take control. Learn how to free up your arm. Start with [baseball yips FAQ](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/). [READ YIPS ARTICLES](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/baseball-yips-articles/) ## Mental Performance Coaches [![Mental Coaching for the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Patrick.jpg "Patrick")](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/)### Patrick Cohn *CEO & Owner* [*Read Bio*](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-expert/) [![Mental Coaching for the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Jaclyn.jpg "Jaclyn")](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-performance-coach-jaclyn-ellis/)### Jaclyn Ellis *Mental Coach* [*Read Bio*](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-performance-coach-jaclyn-ellis/) [![Carolyne Lawley, mental coach for baseball players with the throwing yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/mental-performance-coach-carolyne.jpg "mental-performance-coach-carolyne")](https://www.peaksports.com/carolyne-lawley-mental-performance-coach/)### Carolyne Lawley ***Mental Coach*** [*Read Bio*](https://www.peaksports.com/carolyne-lawley-mental-performance-coach/) [![Mental Performance Coaching for Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/mental-performance-coach-near-us.jpg "Mental Performance Coaching for Throwing Yips")](https://www.peaksports.com/lane-schwarz-mental-performance-coach/)### Lane Schwarz ***Mental Coach*** [*Read Bio*](https://www.peaksports.com/lane-schwarz-mental-performance-coach/) ## Break the Yips Cycle Learn 8 mental strategies to break the yips cycle. Download our FREE report. Do you throw accurately in practice, but lose control in games? Learn how to overcome the throwing yips! Download my free baseball yips report today and learn about: - Why the yips are mental and not physical. - How to identify when you have the throwing yips. - Why yips cycle keeps your stuck in bad throwing. - 8 top mental strategies to break out of the yips cycle. [**GET FREE REPORT**](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/) [![Baseball Yips Report](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/baseball-yips-report.jpg)](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/) ## Video Mental Coaching ![Virtual Mental Coaching via Zoom for Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/virtual-mental-coaching-logos.png)Video Mental Coaching **JOIN A FREE 15-MINUTE MENTAL COACHING SESSION** **Get Video Mental Coaching** **from Anywhere in the World** **Call 407-909-1700** **[ENROLL NOW](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/)** ![Virtual or Remote Mental Coaching for Baseball Players](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/virtual-mental-coach.jpg) [![Baseball Pitching Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/baeball-pitching-yips.jpg)](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/baeball-pitching-yips.jpg) ### How Do You Know You Have the Yips? If you can throw relaxed and accurate in practice, but throw with a lot of tension and poor control in games, good chance you have the **throwing yips**. The yips can cause players to suddenly lose full control of their **throwing accuracy or freeze**. The result is wild pitches, inability to throw to second base or back to the pitcher, or not being able to throw out the runner at first base. Most baseball players panic when they have the **throwing yips**–only because they think their mechanics have left them. But the reality is that the yips are mental and have nothing to do with faulty mechanics… If your mechanics are solid in practice or when throwing in the dugout, but suddenly change during a game, this is not a physical problem! The yips mostly affect baseball players who are filled with fear and worry. If this sounds like you, you worry too much about the outcome or results. **[READ YIPS ARTICLES](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/baseball-yips-articles/) | [WATCH YIPS VIDEOS](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/baseball-yips-video/) | [DOWNLOAD A REPORT](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/) | [YIPS FAQ](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/)** ## Baseball Yips Articles - ![Throwing Yips Videos](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/ball-players-who-have-the-throwing-yips-150x150.jpg) [How to Overcome the Throwing Yips Video](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips-video/)In this throwing yips video, you will learn how to accept and embrace the yips journey. We discuss how to battle back from the yips from a mental perspective. Peak Performance Sports, LLC helps athletes and performers improve … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips-video/ "How to Overcome the Throwing Yips Video") - ![Throwing Yips Videos](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/ball-players-who-have-the-throwing-yips-150x150.jpg) [How to Fix the Throwing Yips Video](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-fix-the-throwing-yips-video/)In this throwing yips video you will learn what mental blocks continue to cause the throwing yips. We discuss how to overcome these challenges to throw freely again. Peak Performance Sports, LLC helps athletes and performers improve mental … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-fix-the-throwing-yips-video/ "How to Fix the Throwing Yips Video") - ![Overthinking and yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/yips-image-small.jpg) [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/)McWilliams Gets a Brand New Start in San Diego What is the most feared four-letter word in baseball? The answer is YIPS! The yips have ended the careers of many baseball players. Players who were once All-Stars have … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/ "How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball") - ![Close-up of a Cincinnati pitcher in a red cap pushing off to throw, baseball confidence and yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/10-21-baseball-small-150x150.jpg) [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/)The Throwing Yips Are in Your Mind Don’t say the dirty 4 letter word… That is how most ballplayers feel about saying the word, “Yips.” When ballplayers mention the word “yips,” this sets in motion the very thing ballplayers … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/ "How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw") ## Baseball Yips Videos - ![Throwing Yips Videos](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/ball-players-who-have-the-throwing-yips-150x150.jpg) [How to Overcome the Throwing Yips Video](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips-video/)In this throwing yips video, you will learn how to accept and embrace the yips journey. We discuss how to battle back from the yips from a mental perspective. Peak Performance Sports, LLC helps athletes and performers improve … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips-video/ "How to Overcome the Throwing Yips Video") - ![Throwing Yips Videos](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/ball-players-who-have-the-throwing-yips-150x150.jpg) [How to Fix the Throwing Yips Video](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-fix-the-throwing-yips-video/)In this throwing yips video you will learn what mental blocks continue to cause the throwing yips. We discuss how to overcome these challenges to throw freely again. Peak Performance Sports, LLC helps athletes and performers improve mental … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-fix-the-throwing-yips-video/ "How to Fix the Throwing Yips Video") - ![Throwing Yips Videos](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/ball-players-who-have-the-throwing-yips-150x150.jpg) [Baseball Players’ Fears And Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-players-fears-and-throwing-problems/)Common Fears For Ball Players With Throwing Yips In our Sessions With Doc video series, Dr. Patrick Cohn talks about his philosophy about the yips cycle. If you think you have the yips or know someone who may … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-players-fears-and-throwing-problems/ "Baseball Players’ Fears And Throwing Problems") - ![Throwing Yips Videos](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/ball-players-who-have-the-throwing-yips-150x150.jpg) [Catchers Who Alter Throwing Mechanics](https://www.baseball-yips.com/catchers-who-alter-their-throwing-mechanics-in-games/)Throwing Problems in Baseball In our new baseball and softball mental game video, Dr. Cohn discusses why some ball players go to a safe throw in games but throw freely in practice. If you think you have the … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/catchers-who-alter-their-throwing-mechanics-in-games/ "Catchers Who Alter Throwing Mechanics") ## Popular Yips Articles - ![Pitcher in a white uniform and blue cap winding up on a grass mound, baseball yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/new-baseballyips-blog-template60-150x150.jpg) [What Are the Yips in Baseball? The Throwing Yips Explained](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/)The yips are a sudden loss of throwing control. Learn the signs, causes and famous cases, plus what helps baseball players throw freely again. … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) - ![Cope with the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/baseball-yips-small-150x150.jpg) [How Daniel Bard Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/)Are the yips career-ending? Daniel Bard's return to the major leagues after seven years away shows the yips can be beaten with the right mindset. … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) - ![Pitcher in a white uniform with black socks striding off the mound, fears in throwing and the yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Throwing-Fears1.jpg) [Why the Ball Can Feel Weird, Heavy, or Light](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-the-ball-can-feel-weird-too-heavy-or-too-light/)A 15-year-old suddenly can't throw the ball back to the pitcher and says it feels weird, too heavy or too light. Learn how the full-blown throwing yips begin. … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-the-ball-can-feel-weird-too-heavy-or-too-light/) - ![Pitcher in a blue shirt mid-follow-through before a green outfield fence, short toss and the yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Why-Short-Toss-is-the-Hardest1.jpg) [Why Short Toss is the Hardest](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-short-toss-is-the-hardest/)Why do ball players struggle with the easier throws? It's counter-intuitive, but extra time to think can lead to overthinking and over control. … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-short-toss-is-the-hardest/) - ![Washington pitcher wearing number 62 gripping the ball behind his head, throwing yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/new-baseballyips-blog-template40-150x150.jpg) [How the Yips Infect Your Confidence](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-the-yips-can-infect-your-confidence/)Do you fear that a couple of throwing errors will lead to more? Learn how thinking about your throw as you make it can handcuff you. … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-the-yips-can-infect-your-confidence/) - ![Pitcher in white following through after his throw, improving throwing accuracy with the yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/improve-accurzcy1.jpg) [Ball Players Who Resort to a Safe Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/ball-players-who-resort-to-a-safe-throw/)When throwing accuracy slips, many players switch to a softer safe throw. See why that does not solve the real problem and what to do instead. … [Baseball Yips Article>>](https://www.baseball-yips.com/ball-players-who-resort-to-a-safe-throw/) --- ## Baseball Yips FAQ ### What are the baseball yips? The baseball yips are a sudden loss of control over a throw that used to feel automatic. Players freeze, hitch, double-clutch or sail the ball, often on easy throws. Read [What Are the Yips in Baseball?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) for the signs, causes and famous cases. ### Are the yips a mental or a physical problem? Researchers do not fully agree. The Mayo Clinic says some cases are a type of focal dystonia, while others are tied to performance anxiety. In the ball players we coach, fear of failure and over-control are usually at the center. If you have pain, numbness or weakness in your arm, see a doctor first. ### How does baseball yips coaching work? You work one-on-one with a certified mental performance coach by Zoom, FaceTime or phone. Coaching starts with the Baseball Mental Aptitude Assessment (BMAP) and a custom Mental Game Plan, with four 45-minute sessions a month. You can start with a free 15-minute introductory session. See [baseball yips coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) for details. ### Is there a self-guided option? Yes. The [Breaking the Yips Cycle audio and workbook program](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/) includes 120 minutes of MP3 audio sessions you can download right away, an 8-session workbook and a bonus session of practice drills. ### What is the free baseball yips report? It is a free download, 8 Mental Game Strategies to Break the Yips Cycle. It explains why the yips are mental and not physical, how to identify the throwing yips, and how the yips cycle keeps you stuck. [Get the free baseball yips report](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/). ### Do you coach softball players too? Yes. We work with baseball and softball players at all levels, from high school and college players to seasoned pros. --- ### [Contact Beat Baseball Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beat-throwing-yips-contact/) **Published:** October 30, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ![2015-Logo-Ball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/contact-beat-baseball-yips-150x150.jpg) Do you have a **mental game of baseball** or throwing yips question for Dr. Patrick Cohn? Interested in mental game programs for baseball players with the yips? Dr. Cohn can help you overcome the throwing yips and improve your mind game for baseball! Please contact us via the following three methods… **Call Us Via Phone** Phone: 407-909-1700 **Contact Us Via Email** Please complete the forms below using a valid email address and someone from Dr. Cohn’s office will contact you usually within 24 hours or less. ![logo-header-web](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/logo-header-web.png) Beat Baseball Yips by Peak Performance Sports, LLC P.O. Box 3188, Windermere, FL 34786-3188 --- ### [Baseball Yips: Your Questions Answered](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/) **Published:** October 1, 2026 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** [![Pitcher in a blue jersey following through on a dirt mound, why the yips are hard to beat](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Why-Short-Toss-is-the-Hardest.jpg)](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Why-Short-Toss-is-the-Hardest.jpg) ## Answers to Your Yips Questions **The yips** are a sudden loss of control over a throw that used to feel automatic. This page answers the most common questions about the baseball yips and points you to the full articles. I’m Dr. Patrick Cohn, a sports psychology coach and the founder of [Peak Performance Sports, LLC](https://www.peaksports.com). I’ve worked in baseball and golf for 40 years helping players with the mental game, including how to overcome the **throwing yips.** That work led us to develop a model of the **yips cycle,** which is the foundation of our **Breaking the Yips Cycle** program. Today I work alongside our team of mental performance coaches, and we coach baseball and softball players one-on-one by video from anywhere in the world. ## Understand the Throwing Yips - [What are the yips in baseball? The full guide](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) - [How to overcome the throwing yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips/) - [Why short toss is the hardest](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-short-toss-is-the-hardest/) - [Get the free throwing yips report](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/) - [Breaking the Yips Cycle audio program](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/) - [One-on-one coaching for the yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) ## Jump to a Section - [The basics](#basics) - [Causes: mental or physical?](#causes) - [Fixing the yips](#fixing) - [Pitchers, catchers, infielders and softball](#positions) - [For parents and coaches](#parents-coaches) - [Famous cases](#famous-cases) - [Coaching](#coaching) ## The Yips Basics ### What are the yips in baseball? The yips are a sudden loss of control over a throw that used to feel automatic. Players freeze, flinch, rush or sail the ball, often on easy throws. Read the full guide: [What Are the Yips in Baseball?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) ### What do the throwing yips feel like? Players describe freezing or pausing in the middle of the throw, a jerk or flinch at release, a loss of feel for the ball, and throws that sail, bounce or spike. Many feel fine in warm-ups but tense up in games. ### How common are the yips in baseball? More common than most players think. In a 2021 questionnaire study of 107 college baseball players in Japan, 47.1% met the researchers’ definition of throwing yips. It was a small study of one team, so treat the number with care. ### Is it the yips or just a throwing slump? Every player has throwing ups and downs. The yips are more likely if the loss of control lasts for weeks, you feel fear or avoid throwing, and you throw much better in practice than in games. ### Why do the yips show up in games but not in practice? Pressure raises the fear of failure, and fear leads players to over-control the throw. Read [why the yips only come during games](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-do-the-yips-only-come-during-games/). ## Causes: Mental or Physical? ### Are the yips mental or physical? Both can play a role. The Mayo Clinic says that for some people the yips are caused by focal dystonia, a condition in the nervous system, and that for others they are related to performance anxiety. In my experience, performance anxiety and fear of failure drive many cases in ball players. ### What is focal dystonia? Focal dystonia is a condition that causes muscles to contract without control during a specific activity, similar to writer’s cramp. The Mayo Clinic says it is most likely linked to overuse of certain muscles, and that anxiety can make the symptoms worse. ### Can one bad throw start the yips? For some players, yes. In my experience, one bad outing can lead a player to tinker with mechanics, worry about the outcome and worry about how others see the problem. That can start the yips cycle. Read more about [breaking the yips cycle](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/). ### Why are short, easy throws often harder? In the 2021 college study, symptoms were more pronounced on short, low-intensity throws. In my view, easy throws give players more time to think about the throw. Read [why short toss is the hardest](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-short-toss-is-the-hardest/). ## Fixing the Yips ### Can you cure the yips? There is no single proven cure, and I cannot promise one. Many players improve by simplifying the throw, dropping the need to be perfect, and working on the mental game. See a doctor first if there is pain or any physical symptom. ### How do you overcome the throwing yips? Start by simplifying your throw and getting back the freedom of playing catch. Focus on the target, not the outcome, and stop using the safe throw. The Mayo Clinic also lists relaxation, breathing exercises and visualization. Read [how to overcome the throwing yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips/). ### How long do the yips last? It varies. Some players recover after a short time, while others need longer-term adjustments. ### Should I see a doctor? Yes, if you have pain, numbness or weakness, or if the jerking or freezing also shows up outside of throwing. There is no single test for the yips. The Mayo Clinic says a neurological exam may be done to rule out other causes. ### Will changing my mechanics fix the yips? It helps some people. The Mayo Clinic says changing how you perform a task, or changing your equipment, may reduce symptoms for some athletes. But in my experience, constantly tinkering with mechanics after a bad outing often makes players over-control their throw. Read [why over-thinking leads to throwing problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-over-thinking-leads-to-throwing-problems/). ## Pitchers, catchers, infielders and softball ### Do pitchers get the yips? Yes. Baseball-Reference describes the yips as a condition in which a pitcher loses the ability to throw in the strike zone. See [when the yips interfere with pitching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/when-the-yips-interfere-with-pitching/). ### Do catchers get the yips? Yes. Catchers can struggle to throw back to the pitcher or down to second base. Baseball-Reference names Mackey Sasser as a catcher who had the yips. See [catchers who can’t throw short distances](https://www.baseball-yips.com/catchers-who-cant-throw-short-distances/). ### Do infielders get the yips? Yes. Baseball-Reference says the yips also affect position players, and it names second baseman Steve Sax, who had them in the early 1980s. ### What are the yips in softball? The same problem happens in softball: a sudden loss of control of a throw or a pitch that used to feel automatic. ### Do golfers get the yips too? Yes. The yips are best known in golf, where the Mayo Clinic says they most often happen when putting. For golf, visit our [putting yips site](https://www.puttingyips.com/). ## For parents and coaches ### What should parents do if their son or daughter has the yips? Stay calm. Avoid labeling it or telling your player to just throw it, because pressure and embarrassment feed the cycle. Keep throwing fun and low-stakes, and check with a doctor if there is any pain. ### How should coaches handle a player with the yips? Keep practice low-pressure, since the Mayo Clinic notes that symptoms often get worse under stress. Avoid putting the player on the spot, and encourage him or her to get help. See [how coaches handle the yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-do-coaches-handle-the-yips/). ## Famous cases ### Who has had the yips in baseball? Baseball-Reference names Steve Blass, Mark Wohlers, Rick Ankiel and Daniel Bard, along with Steve Sax and Mackey Sasser. Read about [Rick Ankiel’s throwing problem](https://www.baseball-yips.com/rick-ankiel-throwing-problem/) and [how Daniel Bard overcame the yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/). ### Can the yips end a baseball career? For some players, yes. Baseball-Reference says the condition ended Steve Blass’s career. Others recover: Rick Ankiel returned to the majors as an outfielder. ## Coaching ### Can a sports psychologist help with the yips? A sports psychologist or mental performance coach can help with the mental side of the yips, such as fear of failure and over-control. The Mayo Clinic lists mental skills training among the strategies that may reduce symptoms. See our [baseball yips coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/). ### How much does baseball yips coaching cost? Baseball yips coaching costs $600 to $700 per month. The program is month to month and includes four 45-minute coaching sessions each month. See the [coaching programs](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) for what is included. ## Browse All Baseball Yips Articles Every article on this site, grouped by topic. ### Understanding the Yips - [Ball Players Who Have The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/ball-players-who-have-the-throwing-yips/) - [How Do Coaches Handle the Yips?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-do-coaches-handle-the-yips/) - [How The Yips Show Up In Big Games](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-the-yips-show-up-in-big-games/) - [What Are The Throwing Yips?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) - [Why Do The Yips Only Come in Games?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-do-the-yips-only-come-during-games/) - [Why Short Toss is the Hardest](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-short-toss-is-the-hardest/) ### Causes and the Mental Game - [Avoiding Bad Throws Hurts Performance](https://www.baseball-yips.com/avoiding-bad-throws-hurts-performance/) - [Ball Players Who Resort to a Safe Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/ball-players-who-resort-to-a-safe-throw/) - [Baseball Players’ Fears And Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-players-fears-and-throwing-problems/) - [How Confidence Affects Your Ability to Accurately Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-confidence-affects-your-ability-to-accurately-throw/) - [How Perceived Pressure Contributes to the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-perceived-pressure-contributes-to-the-yips/) - [How the Yips Infect Your Confidence](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-the-yips-can-infect-your-confidence/) - [How Throwing Errors Can Turn Into The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/throwing-errors-can-turn-into-the-yips/) - [Is Missing Throws a Mental or Physical Problem?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/missing-throws-mental-or-physical-problem/) - [Overthinking and The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/overthinking-and-throwing-yips/) - [Why Ball Players Go to a Safe Throw](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-ball-players-go-to-a-safe-throw/) - [Why Over Thinking Leads to Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-over-thinking-leads-to-throwing-problems/) - [Why the Ball Can Feel Weird, Heavy, or Light](https://www.baseball-yips.com/why-the-ball-can-feel-weird-too-heavy-or-too-light/) ### How to Overcome the Yips - [2 Effective Strategies to Conquer The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/strategies-to-conquer-the-throwing-yips/) - [Beat The Throwing Yips With Tempo](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beat-the-throwing-yips-with-a-little-tempo/) - [Beat the Yips: Trust or Bust](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beat-the-yips-trust-or-bust/) - [Change Your Focus to Beat The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/change-focus-to-beat-yips/) - [Does “Tapping” or EFT Help With The Throwing Yips?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/does-tapping-help-with-the-throwing-yips/) - [Face The Throwing Yips Head On](https://www.baseball-yips.com/face-throwing-yips-head-on/) - [How Can You Free Up Your Throw?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-can-you-free-up-your-throw/) - [How to Bounce Back From the Yips in Baseball](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-bounce-back-from-the-yips-in-baseball/) - [How to Break the Grip of the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-break-the-grip-of-the-yips/) - [How to Fix the Throwing Yips Video](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-fix-the-throwing-yips-video/) - [How to Have More Good Throwing Days](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-have-more-days-with-good-throwing/) - [How to Overcome The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips/) - [How to Overcome the Throwing Yips Video](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-to-overcome-the-throwing-yips-video/) - [Interrupt The Cycle And Beat Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/interrupt-yips-cycle-beat-the-yips/) - [One Mental Key to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-mental-key-to-help-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Solutions For The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/solutions-for-throwing-yips/) - [Think Less to Beat The Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/think-less-beat-throwing-yips/) - [Tuning Out Mental Interference](https://www.baseball-yips.com/beating-the-throwing-yips/) - [Your Mental Game And Solving The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/improve-mental-game-solve-the-yips/) ### Pitchers and Catchers - [Catchers Who Alter Throwing Mechanics](https://www.baseball-yips.com/catchers-who-alter-their-throwing-mechanics-in-games/) - [Catchers Who Can’t Throw Short Distances](https://www.baseball-yips.com/catchers-who-cant-throw-short-distances/) - [Do You Have Throwing or Pitching Problems?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/do-you-have-throwing-or-pitching-problems/) - [Two Strategies to Beat The Pitching Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/two-mental-strategies-to-beat-the-pitching-yips/) - [When One Throw or Pitch Can Turn into the Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/when-one-throw-or-pitch-can-turn-into-the-yips/) - [When The Yips Interfere With Pitching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/when-the-yips-interfere-with-pitching/) ### Famous Players and MLB Cases - [Bad Cases of Yips in MLB](https://www.baseball-yips.com/bad-cases-of-yips-in-mlb/) - [How Daniel Bard Overcame The Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/how-daniel-bard-overcame-the-yips/) - [How The Yips Have Affected MLB Careers](https://www.baseball-yips.com/yips-and-mlb-careers/) - [Jon Lester’s Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/jon-lester-throwing-yips-video/) - [One Player Who Beat the Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/one-player-who-beat-the-throwing-yips/) - [Rick Ankiel’s Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/rick-ankiel-throwing-problem/) - [Ryan Zimmerman’s Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/bryan-zimmerman-throwing-yips-video/) **About the author:** Dr. Patrick Cohn is a mental performance coach and the founder of **Peak Performance Sports, LLC**. He has 40 years of experience helping athletes improve their mental game, and he works with baseball players and golfers to overcome the yips. *This page is for education and is not medical advice. If you have pain, numbness or weakness, see a doctor.* --- ### [Baseball Yips Coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) **Published:** October 30, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** [![Pitcher in mid-delivery beside the words 1-on-1 mental coaching, learn how to beat the yips, it is mental not physical](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/baseball-yips-hellp.jpg)](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/)**40 years helping baseball players. One-on-one coaching worldwide by Zoom** ## Baseball Yips Coaching. Get Back to Throwing Freely **Throwing a baseball** is supposed to feel effortless or automatic. If it feels that way in practice, but your arm tightens, hitches or freezes once the game is on the line, you may be dealing with the **baseball yips**. Our certified **mental performance coaches** work one-on-one with baseball and softball players on exactly this problem, from anywhere in the world. ### What are the baseball yips? **The baseball yips** are a sudden loss of control over a throw that used to feel natural. Players freeze in the middle of the motion, hitch, double-clutch or sail the ball, and it often happens on the easiest throws. Researchers do not fully agree on the cause. The Mayo Clinic says that in some people the yips are a type of focal dystonia, a neurological condition, while in others they are tied to performance anxiety. In the ball players we coach, fear of failure and over-control sit at the center of it. That is why changing your grip or arm slot rarely solves it. Baseball yips coaching goes after the thinking and the fear that keep the problem going. If you want the full background first, read [What Are the Yips in Baseball?](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) And if you have pain, numbness or weakness in your arm, see a doctor first. [**BOOK A FREE 15-MINUTE SESSION**](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ***Coaching baseball and softball players worldwide via Zoom*** **Prefer to talk first? Call us at 407-909-1700** ### Does This Sound Familiar? The baseball yips show up at every level, from youth ball to the pros. **See if any of these sound like you:** → “I’m fine in warm-ups and in the bullpen, then everything tightens up once the game starts.” → “The easy throws, like flipping it back to the pitcher, scare me more than the hard ones.” → “I hitch, pump or double-clutch before I let go of the ball.” → “I have changed my grip and my arm slot, and nothing sticks.” → “I dread the ball coming to me, and I wonder if I should keep playing.” ### How to tell if the baseball yips are behind your throwing trouble [![Baseball resting on the infield chalk line, a symbol of baseball yips mental coaching](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/mental-coach-for-baseball.jpg "Baseball yips mental coaching")](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/mental-coach-for-baseball.jpg) If you throw on target in practice but lose control in games, the baseball yips are a likely suspect. Other signs are trouble on short, simple throws, and trusting only a few of your normal throws or pitches when it counts. Pitchers lose the strike zone and the feel for the ball. Catchers struggle to return the ball to the mound or to throw down to second. Infielders describe a hitch or a double-clutch right before they release the ball to first base. Softball players run into the same problem. Many players also worry about what coaches and teammates will think, or about losing playing time, and that worry feeds the problem. You can find more answers in our [baseball yips questions and answers](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/). --- ## What Players Say About Baseball Yips Coaching ★★★★★ **4.7 out of 5** — [See our reviews on Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=Peak+Performance+Sports,+LLC) ✅ **A+ Rated** — [BBB Accredited Business since 2010](https://www.bbb.org/us/fl/windermere/profile/self-improvement-coach/peak-performance-sports-llc-0733-194200411) #### “A Game Where My Throws Were 100% Yip Free” *“When I got on the field, it was like I couldn’t control my own body… When I would go to pull the trigger, some demon would take over. It was happening for about three years and kept getting worse and worse. I worked through it where the fear is pretty much gone. I had a game recently where my throws were 100% yip-free. But I feel like I have more confidence now. I feel like I control my body now.”\** #### “I Got My First Win of the Season” *“I recently read the Yips report and the next day I came in out of the bullpen and pitched two shutout innings and got my first win of the season. The part that got to me was talking about how the thing holding me back is myself and my fears of embarrassment and failure. I forgot all about that on the mound yesterday and it really helped.”\** **~Jack Deardorff** [**BOOK A FREE 15-MINUTE SESSION**](https://www.peaksports.com/schedule-a-free-session/) ## How Baseball Yips Coaching Works **Step 1: Find Where the Yips Come From** We start with the **Baseball Mental Aptitude Assessment (BMAP)** and a detailed conversation about what drives your yips: overthinking, worry about what others think, perfectionism, performance anxiety, or a mix. Every player’s story is different. **Step 2: Build Your Mental Game Plan** Together with your coach you build a **custom Mental Game Plan** aimed at the fears and habits that keep you stuck in the yips cycle. **Step 3: Coach Every Week** You meet one-on-one for **four 45-minute sessions a month**, then use the workbooks and unlimited email support to practice between sessions. **Step 4: Take It Into Games** You bring your plan into catch play, bullpens and then live games, so trust under pressure comes back one step at a time. ## What Baseball Yips Coaching Includes - The Baseball Mental Aptitude Assessment (BMAP) to identify your mental game challenges - A custom Mental Game Plan that guides your progress - Four 45-minute coaching sessions each month, on a month-to-month basis - Unlimited email correspondence with our staff to answer your questions between sessions - Breaking the Yips Cycle workbooks to help you review and apply what you learn Sessions take place by Zoom, FaceTime, phone or video conference, so you can work with us from anywhere. Want a self-guided option first? See the [Breaking the Yips Cycle audio and workbook program](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/). Questions? Call us at 407-909-1700. ## Work With a Certified Mental Performance Coach ### Our Coaches Peak Performance Sports has a team of certified mental performance coaches, including [Jaclyn Ellis](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-performance-coach-jaclyn-ellis/), [Carolyne Lawley](https://www.peaksports.com/carolyne-lawley-mental-performance-coach/) and [Lane Schwarz](https://www.peaksports.com/lane-schwarz-mental-performance-coach/), who coach baseball and softball players by video from anywhere in the world. Meet the whole team on the [Peak Performance Sports coaches page](https://www.peaksports.com/mental-performance-coaches/). ### Meet Dr. Patrick Cohn Dr. Patrick Cohn is a sports psychologist and the founder of [Peak Performance Sports, LLC](https://www.peaksports.com/). He earned his Ph.D. in Sports Psychology from the University of Virginia and has spent 40 years working in baseball and helping athletes with the mental game. He created the [Breaking the Yips Cycle](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/) program, the [Athlete’s Mental Edge workbook](https://www.peaksports.com/athletes-mental-edge-workbooks/) and the [Mental Game Coaching Professional (MGCP) certification](https://www.mentalgamecoachingpro.com/). Read more [about Dr. Cohn](https://www.baseball-yips.com/throwing-yips-expert/). --- ### Baseball Yips Coaching FAQ #### How much does baseball yips coaching cost? Baseball yips coaching costs $600 to $700 per month. The program is month to month and includes four 45-minute coaching sessions each month. #### What is included in the coaching program? The program includes the Baseball Mental Aptitude Assessment (BMAP), a custom Mental Game Plan, four 45-minute coaching sessions per month, unlimited email correspondence with our staff, and workbooks to help you apply mental game strategies between sessions. #### Can baseball yips be cured? No one can promise a cure. Many players improve by simplifying the throw, letting go of the need to be perfect and working on the mental game, and the goal of coaching is to help you throw freely again. See a doctor first if you have pain or any physical symptom. #### How is yips coaching different from general baseball mental coaching? General mental coaching builds skills such as focus and confidence. Yips coaching targets the cycle of fear of missing, over-control and embarrassment that keeps throwing problems going, using a plan built around your own triggers. #### Is coaching done online? Yes. All coaching is virtual. You work one-on-one with a mental coach from anywhere in the world by phone, Zoom, FaceTime or video conferencing. #### Which players do you coach? We work with baseball and softball players at all levels, from high school and college players to seasoned pros. --- ### Ready to Throw Freely Again? **Book your free 15-minute introductory session with a mental coach, or send us your questions about baseball yips coaching:** Available worldwide · No travel required · Zoom · FaceTime · Phone #### **Or call us: 407-909-1700** [![Sport Psychology Today](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/sports-psychology-today-logo.jpg)](https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/peak-performance-sports-sports-psychology-windermere-fl/337327)**Find Us on Psychology Today** ### What the Research Says About the Baseball Yips The Mayo Clinic notes that the yips are most often described in golf but can affect baseball players too, and that anxiety can make them worse. In a 2021 questionnaire study of 107 college baseball players in Japan, 47.1% met the researchers’ definition of throwing yips. Read the [Mayo Clinic’s overview of the yips](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yips/symptoms-causes/syc-20379021) or the [2021 college baseball study](https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jspfsm/70/1/70_91/_article). ### More on the Baseball Yips - [What Are the Yips in Baseball? The full guide](https://www.baseball-yips.com/what-are-throwing-yips/) - [Baseball Yips: Your Questions Answered](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips/) - [Get the free baseball yips report](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/) - [Breaking the Yips Cycle audio and workbook program](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/) - [Baseball and softball mental coaching at Peak Performance Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/baseball-and-softball-psychology/) - [Putting yips? Visit our putting yips site](https://www.puttingyips.com/) --- **Disclaimer** *\*Testimonials found on this site are examples of what we have done for other clients, and what some of our clients have said about us. However, we cannot guarantee the results in any case. Your results may vary and every situation is different. No compensation was provided for these testimonials.* --- ### [Breaking the Yips Cycle: Audio Program for Baseball Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle/) **Published:** February 16, 2017 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## Discover How To Break The Yips Cycle And Throw or Pitch Freely Again **Proven Audio Program Helps Ball Players Overcome Throwing Yips** If you can throw well when alone, but can’t take it to games, **this is a mental game issue** and not a physical challenge. Now, the yips might feel like it’s physical when you freeze, flinch, or over control your release. However, if you can throw freely in practice, but tense up in game situations, then **it’s mental and not physical!** After 40 years working in baseball, we developed a **model for the throwing yips**… The model explains why ball players get stuck in a nasty cycle that’s hard to break out of when they have the yips. Here’s the model: [![Throwing yips help chart: breaking the yips cycle from past yips to feeling like a failure and starting over](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/throwing-yips-help.jpg)](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/throwing-yips-help.jpg)The Throwing Yips Cycle **The Yips Cycle** is a vicious cycle that causes ball players to stay trapped in over thinking and over control… We team ball players how to [overcome the yips cycle](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/)… **From fear of missing a throw to over control to feeling embarrassed**, everyone I share this with agrees with my philosophy about the yips: - The cycle comes and goes for some of you where you can lose the yips, but it returns mysteriously; - The cycle is all about anxiety and fear of missing and the aftermath of missing; - The cycle includes massive frustration that spills over into a ball player’s game and life; - The cycle makes it hard to regain any confidence in your throwing or pitching. The yips can **take all the fun out** of your ball game. It can ruin the hard work you put into it. If you’ve had throwing problems for years, all this ***suffering is really unnecessary*.** *Having helped my athletes overcome the yips, you too can discover how to free up your arm and gain confidence again!* ### Learn to Throw Freely Again With My Proven Audio and Workbook Program [![Breaking the Yips Cycle for Baseball and Softball Players](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/baseball-yips-medium.jpg)](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/baseball-yips-medium.jpg) **Digital Download: No Shipping!** Download for Immediate Access $249 Digital Download [ORDER NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) ### “Breaking The Yips Cycle: Mental Strategies to Improve Confidence and Throw Freely Again” I share with you everything I know about how to get over the yips… Including how to enjoy playing the game again by changing the reasons you play! ### What’s Included In “Breaking The Yips Cycle” Program? “**Breaking The Yips Cycle**” is a complete brain dump of the TOP Eight mental training sessions I do with my personal coaching students to help them overcome the yips and play with freedom again. #### The Audio and Workbook Program Includes: - MP3 Audio (Digital Download). **120 minutes of mental training sessions** you can download to your computer right away while you wait for the CDs and workbook to arrive. **(MP3 Audio value = $149).** - **An 8-Session Breaking The Yips Cycle Workbook** to guide you through my mental game sessions and to overcome the throwing yips **(Workbook value: $149.00).** - **Bonus Session: Practice drills to free up your throwing** to help you improve consistency and stop focusing on mechanics when you play. **8 Sessions on Audio Download:** - Session 1: Managing Strict Expectations That Get in The Way - Session 2: How to Focus on the Process - Session 3: Learn to Throw Freely And Play Intuitively - Session 4: Regaining Confidence in Your Game - Session 5: Playing The Game For The Right Reasons - Session 6: Overcoming Social Approval Fears - Session 7: Uncoupling Your Self-Esteem And Performance - Session 8: Simplify Your Throwing or Pitching Routine ### OVER $150 IN BONUSES JUST FOR TRYING MY PROGRAM! You’ll Immediately download over **$150 worth of FREE bonuses** after you complete your order. You get all of these bonuses for just trying our new program! **Keep the bonuses even if you choose to return the program for a full refund (within 30 days of your purchase).** #### Special Bonus 1 – Interview with Ken Ravizza (42 minutes) (MP3 Audio And Transcript) [Dr. Ken Ravizza](https://www.peaksports.com/find-a-top-sports-psychologist/), former professor of Applied Sport Psychology at the California State University at Fullerton, discusses with Dr. Cohn his **approach to mental training**. We talk about what’s needed to find that passion for what you are doing as an athlete (a $25 value). #### Special Bonus 2 – Interview with Tom Hanson (46 minutes) (MP3 Audio And Transcript) Dr. Tom Hanson, the author of “Heads-Up Baseball: Playing the Game One Pitch at a Time” and former full-time Performance Enhancement director for the New York Yankees, discusses his **approach to mental training**. Dr. Hanson speaks about his “tapping” technique and its uses (a $25 value). #### Special Bonus 3 – Sharpen Your Focus (E-book) When learning mental game strategies, you first have to understand the concepts such as how to focus, what you need to focus on, and how to refocus when distracted. **Print this e-book to help you learn how to improve concentration using these practice drills** (a $30 value). #### Special Bonus 4 – The Confidence-Expectations Connection (E-book) As your players practice more and achieve greater success, expectations can also elevate to the point of harming their confidence. If they don’t reach their own expectations, confidence can take a blow especially when they begin to have self-doubt. **Print this e-book to help your players understand the relationship between confidence and expectations** (a $30 value). #### Special Bonus 5 – Pregame Warm-Up Routine (PDF) Athletes must apply what they learn in the program to be successful. A pregame routine is the perfect way to apply what you learn. This cheat-sheet guide summarizes the top mental preparation strategies and tells you exactly how to mentally prepare for game. You can modify the guide to fit your athletic needs (a $30 value). #### Special Bonus 6 – Pregame Tips For Parents And Coaches (PDF) What should you, as a parent or coach, say and do just before competition to help athletes get into a confident mindset? Learn how you can reinforce our mental strategies so you’re part of the solution and not part of the problem! Help your ball player play with confidence (a $20 value). #### Special Bonus 7 – Practice Drills to Free Up Your Arm (Bonus Chapter) How should you practice to free up your arm? Use my practice drills to throw intuitively and stop over thinking your arm action (a $20 value). ### Purchase Your Program Today! [![Breaking the Yips Cycle for Baseball and Softball Players](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/baseball-yips-medium.jpg)](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/baseball-yips-medium.jpg) **Digital Download: No Shipping!** Download for Immediate Access $249 Digital Download [ORDER NOW](https://shop.peaksports.com/products/breaking-the-baseball-yips-cycle-digital) #### Two Easy Methods to Order 1. The easiest and most efficient way is to place your **order online** today. 2. **Call us at 407-909-1700** and place your order with a valid credit card. Have your email, address, phone number, and credit card handy. Thank you for taking the time to read about “**Breaking The Yips Cycle**” – my best option (other than personal coaching) to help you throw freely again and regain your confidence. Please [contact us](https://www.peaksports.com/contact-peak-performance-sports/) if you have any questions about my new program! ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the Breaking The Yips Cycle program? Breaking The Yips Cycle is an audio and workbook program from Dr. Patrick Cohn. It shares the top eight mental training sessions he uses with his personal coaching students to help ball players overcome the yips and play with freedom again. ### What is included in the program? The program includes 120 minutes of MP3 audio sessions you can download right away, an 8-session Breaking The Yips Cycle workbook, and a bonus session of practice drills to free up your throwing. It also comes with bonus interviews, e-books and PDF guides. ### What are the eight audio sessions about? The eight sessions cover managing strict expectations, focusing on the process, learning to throw freely and play intuitively, regaining confidence in your game, playing the game for the right reasons, overcoming social approval fears, uncoupling your self-esteem and performance, and simplifying your throwing or pitching routine. ### Can I get a refund? The page says you can return the program for a full refund within 30 days of your purchase, and you keep the bonuses either way. ### What is the yips cycle? The yips cycle is a vicious cycle that keeps ball players trapped in overthinking and over control. It runs from fear of missing a throw to over control to feeling embarrassed, and it makes it hard to regain confidence in your throwing or pitching. --- ### [Free Baseball Yips Report](https://www.baseball-yips.com/free-yips-report/) **Published:** November 1, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## “Break The Yips Cycle And Throw Freely Again” ### Mental Coach Reveals Secrets To Overcoming The Throwing Yips ![Baseball yips report cover: 8 mental game strategies to break the throwing yips cycle, by Patrick J. Cohn, Ph.D.](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Baseball-Yips-Report-200.jpg) Do you throw accurately in practice, but lose control in games? Learn how to overcome the throwing yips! Download my free baseball yips report today and learn about: - Why the yips are mental and not physical. - How to identify when you have the throwing yips. - How the yips cycle keeps your stuck in bad throwing. - 8 top mental strategies to break out of the yips cycle. Download my FREE baseball yips report and unlock your throwing potential today! Please complete the form below to immediately download my FREE throwing report: [Beat Baseball Yips by Peak Performance Sports](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/), LLC | Windermere, FL 34786-3188 ### “Got My First Win of the Season.” *“I recently read the Yips report and the next day I came in out of the bullpen and pitched two shutout innings and got my first win of the season. The part that got to me was talking about how the thing holding me back is myself and my fears of embarrassment and failure. I forgot all about that on the mound yesterday and it really helped.”\** *~Jack Deardorff* ### “I was Throwing Completely Free…” *“Hey Dr. Cohn just wanted to say today was a really good day I felt I was throwing completely free, had maybe one or two tense throws only after coach told me it looked very good.”* *~Chris Fetters* ### “A Game Where My Throws Were 100% Yip Free” *“When I got on the field, it was like I couldn’t control my own body… When I would go to pull the trigger, some demon would take over. It was happening for about three years and kept getting worse and worse. I worked through it \[with Dr. Cohn\] where the fear is pretty much gone. I had a game recently where my throws were 100% yip-free. But I feel like I have more confidence now. I feel like I control my body now.”\** ### “Throwing Problem Covers Many Situations In Life” *“Your response to the throwing problem in front of the coach covers so many situations in life…that is the beauty of playing sports…the life learning experiences. Keep up the good work…you are the best coach.”\** *~Bill Brennan* ### “You Know What The Yips Are” *“I’ve read so many teachings regarding the yips, and you’re right on. I’ve read articles from top 10 teachers who have supposed cures for the yips, and realize, they don’t even know what the yips are… You know what they are, and I believe you know how to cure them. Thank you for your newsletters.”\** *~Kevin* ### “I Feel Like I’m Stealing From You” *“Patrick–something seems really weird here. You are giving out so much good material to help with the yips, and I feel like I am stealing from you! I really like your style! You don’t see that very often–ever as a mater of fact! You are an amazing guy!”\** *~O’Jay Omlid* --- --- **Disclaimer** \*Testimonials found on this site are examples of what we have done for other clients, and what some of our clients have said about us. However, we cannot guarantee the results in any case. Your results may vary and every situation is different. No compensation was provided for these testimonials. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the free baseball yips report? It is a free report from Dr. Cohn for ball players who throw accurately in practice but lose control in games. It covers why the yips are mental and not physical, how to identify the throwing yips, how the yips cycle keeps you stuck in bad throwing, and 8 top mental strategies to break out of the yips cycle. ### How do I get the report? Complete the form on the page to download the free report immediately. ### Do the testimonials guarantee results? No. The page says the testimonials are examples of what clients have said, that it cannot guarantee the results in any case, and that your results may vary because every situation is different. --- ### [Terms of Use](https://www.baseball-yips.com/terms-of-use/) **Published:** July 11, 2018 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## Baseball Yips – Terms of Use ### Peak Performance Sports’ Terms of Use (Questions: 407-909-1700) Terms of Use Peak Performance Sports Terms of Use The following Terms of Use are entered into by and between You, Baseball Yips by Peak Performance Sports, LLC (**“Company”, “we”, or “us”**). 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Box 3188 Windermere, FL 34786-3188 **E-mail:** [Contact Peak Performance Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/contact-peak-performance-sports/) **Phone:** 407-909-1700 Fax Number: 407-909-1789 **Copyright** Complying with all applicable copyright laws is the responsibility of the user. Without limiting the rights under copyright, no part of this website may be reproduced, modified or distributed for profit in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the express written permission of Peak Performance Sports, LLC and Dr. Patrick Cohn. Peak Performance Sports, LLC may have patents, trademarks, copyrights, or other intellectual property rights covering subject matter on this website. 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Box 3188 Windermere, FL 34786-3188 407-909-1700 --- ### [Baseball Yips Partners](https://www.baseball-yips.com/baseball-yips-partners/) **Published:** April 19, 2025 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## Please visit Sports Psychology Partners: Please visit our sport psychology partners by Peak Performance Sports, LLC: - [About Sports Psychology](https://www.sports-psychology.com) - [Common Questions About Sports Psychology](https://www.peaksports.com/about-sports-psychology/) - [Mental Game Success Stories](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-case-studies/) - [Sports Psychology from Peak Performance Sports](https://www.peaksports.com) - [Kids Sports Psychology for Parents of Young Athletes](https://www.kidssportspsychology.com) - [Youth Sports Psychology for Sports Parents](https://www.youthsportspsychology.com) - [Sports Psychology Coach Certification](https://www.mentalgamecoachingpro.com/) - [Baseball Mental Game Tips](https://www.baseballmentalgame.com/) - [Golf Psychology Programs](https://www.peaksports.com/golf-psychology-programs/) - [Racing Psychology](https://www.racingpsychology.com/) - [Hockey Psychology](https://www.hockey-psychology.com/) - [Sports Parenting](https://www.youthsportspsychology.com) - [Sports Performance Anxiety](https://www.performanceanxietysports.com/) - [Sports Psychology Articles](https://www.peaksports.com/sports-psychology-blog/) - [Sports Psychology for Gymnasts](https://www.gymnasticsmentalcoach.com) - [What is Sports Psychology?](https://www.sports-psychology.com/) - [Day Trading Psychology](https://www.daytraderpsychology.com/) --- ### Mental Game Coach Certification: The Mental Game Coaching Professional (MGCP) certification program is a proven sports psychology performance enhancement system developed by leading sports psychology expert, Dr. Patrick Cohn. Drawing from 40 years of experience working in baseball as a mental game coach, sports mental training expert and former athlete, Dr. Cohn has developed the MGCP program to give you the coaching tools to help your athletes overcome performance obstacles and find “the zone.” - [Sports Psychology Certification (MGCP)](https://www.mentalgamecoachingpro.com/) --- ### Contact Us for More Information Please contact us today to learn how [mental coaching for yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) can help you overcome the throwing or pitching yips and to request pricing on all mental training programs for baseball and softball players. Complete our web form to contact us via email or call us at 407-909-1700. Please input your name, email, and role in baseball below and we’ll will contact you promptly with the coaching options. No matter where you live, you can participate in a one-on-one mental coaching program to overcome the yips–via Zoom, Facetime, or Phone. --- ### [About Dr. Patrick Cohn, Yips Expert](https://www.baseball-yips.com/throwing-yips-expert/) **Published:** October 30, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ### Dr. Patrick Cohn, Mental Coach to Pro Athletes [![Sport Psychologist for Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/sports-psychology-coaching.jpg)](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/sports-psychology-coaching.jpg) Dr. Patrick Cohn is the president and founder of Peak Performance Sports, Dr. Cohn helps **baseball players and golfers overcome the yips and** improve mental game skills to perform at their peak. Dr. Cohn teaches his unique mental game coaching system, the MGCP certification program ([Mental Game Coaching Professional](https://www.mentalgamecoachingpro.com)) to qualified coaches, trainers, and sports psychology students in training. In addition, Dr. Cohn works with base players and golfers on the **throwing and putting yips**. He also is the author of [*Breaking the Yips Cycle: How to Putt, Chip, and Pitch Freely and Enjoy Golf Again*](https://www.peaksports.com/breaking-the-yips-cycle-dvd/). ### Jaclyn Ellis, M.S., MGCP, Mental Coach to Collegiate and High School Athletes ![Baseball Yips Coach](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/mental-performance-coach-jaclyn.jpg) Jaclyn is a mental performance coach for Peak Performance Sports. She earned a Master’s degree from Illinois State University. She competed in soccer, volleyball, and tennis and was a competitive youth head soccer coach in Bloomington, IL. She is a certified [Mental Game Coaching Professional ](https://www.mentalgamecoachingpro.com/)(MGCP) with Peak Performance Sports, LLC. And she’s completing the requirements to be a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) through AASP. Coach Jaclyn specializes in **mental performance coaching** with High School and College level athletes in all sports including soccer, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, golf, hockey, lacrosse, gymnastics, cheer, dance, cross country, wrestling, football, and American Ninja Warrior athletes. --- ### About Lane Schwarz, MGCP, Yips Coach ![Mental Performance Coaching for Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/mental-performance-coach-near-us.jpg "mental-performance-coach-brock | Baseball Mental Game Tips") Lane Schwarz is a mental performance coach with a **Master of Science in Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology** from Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he carried a perfect 4.0 GPA. Lane is working toward earning his **Certified Mental Performance Coach (CMPC)** designation through the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) and is a **Mental Game Coaching Professional (MGCP)**, trained directly by Dr. Patrick Cohn of Peak Performance Sports, LLC. Lane brings hands-on experience working with athletes at every level. Through the **Center for Sport and Performance Psychology** at Minnesota State, he has worked with individual and group mental performance coaching with high school, collegiate, and ROTC athletes. **Lane has worked with athletes in baseball, softball, track and field, cross country, golf, hockey, tennis, gymnastics, soccer, motocross, shooting and wrestling.** --- For more details about solutions to overcome the yips in baseball, visit [Mental Coaching for Baseball Pitching Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/coaching-yips-programs/) page or call 407-909-1700. ### About The Yips in Baseball ![Keeping a Throwing Streak Going](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/throwing-streak1.jpg) The **throwing yips** are another variety of the “yips.” I have worked with many players who had problems with the golf yips, service yips, and the throwing yips. The throwing yips, although uncommon in baseball, are super hard to shake because you stay stuck for long period of time in the “yips cycle.” When you have the **throwing yips**, you simply can’t release the ball freely or send it to your target easily. Most ball players with the pitching or throwing yips lose control of their accuracy and can’t hit a target. Some players might pause or freeze during the throwing motion. Others can start the wind up and then jerk their arm forward. The throwing yips can affect pitchers, catchers, and infielders alike. According to the Mayo Clinic, they report that having the yips is both psychological and neurological. In their opinion, **performance anxiety** about the outcome leads to muscle spasms, which causes athletes to feel out of control. They also report that athletes with the yips have a neurological problem called “focal dystonia.” I agree with that the yips are highly related to performance anxiety. I’m not sure about the neurological problems associated with the yips. In my opinion after working with several athletes with the yips, the the yips are related to performance anxiety and fear of failure. Baseball players who have a bad outing usually start to look for solutions and tinker with their mechanics, which make matters worse. In many cases, they begin to worry about the outcome and how others view the problem. The t**hrowing yips for baseball players** can infect other parts of your mental game such as confidence, focus, trust in your skills, and the ability to focus on the process. The most difficult part about the yips is that it turns into a negative cycle for most players. This mental the yips perpetuates itself and keeps players stuck. I call this negative cycle: “The Yips Cycle.” ### The Yips Cycle ![The Yips Cycle for Players with Throwing Problems](https://www.baseball-yips.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Baseball-Yips-Cycle-600.jpg) --- ### [Privacy Policy](https://www.baseball-yips.com/privacy-policy/) **Published:** November 16, 2015 **Author:** Patrick Cohn **Content:** ## Baseball Yips – Privacy Policy ### Peak Performance Sports’ Privacy Policy (Questions: 407-909-1700) **Effective as of October 1, 2026** Baseball Yips by Peak Performance Sports, LLC (**“Company,” “we,” or “us”**) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting it through this [Privacy Policy](https://www.peaksports.com/privacy-policy/). 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Surveys provide us with information on sports psychology to help us better understand our users’ service needs. We encourage you to submit this information so we can provide you a more personalized experience on our website but participation is entirely voluntary. We use a service provider to serve our users surveys. This service provider is not authorized to use your information for any other purposes. **Use of Cookies And Pixels** Similar to other commercial websites, our website utilizes a standard technology called “cookies” and server logs to collect information about how our site is used. Information gathered through cookies and server logs may include the date and time of visits, the pages viewed, time spent at our site, and the websites visited just before and just after our own, as well as your IP address. A cookie is a very small text document, which often includes an anonymous unique identifier. When you visit a website, that site’s computer asks your computer for permission to store this file in a part of your hard drive specifically designated for cookies. Each website can send its own cookie to your browser if your browser’s preferences allow it, but (to protect your privacy) your browser only permits a website to access the cookies it has already sent to you, not the cookies sent to you by other sites. The Company reserves the right to use technological equivalents of cookies, including social media pixels. These pixels allow social media sites to track visitors to outside websites so as to tailor advertising messages users see while visiting that social media website. The Company reserves the right to use these pixels in compliance with the policies of the various social media sites. **Choices about Cookies:** You can configure your browser to accept all cookies, reject all cookies, or notify you when a cookie is set. (Each browser is different, so check the “Help” menu of your browser to learn how to change your cookie preferences). **Our Practices Regarding Cookies:** We administer cookies on our site to provide you customized content, keep track of preferences you specify while using the site, estimate and report our audience and traffic and conduct research to improve our services to you. None of the information in these cookies is tied to your personally identifiable information. **Third Party Use of Cookies** Some content or applications, including advertisements, on the Website are served by third-parties, including advertisers, ad networks and servers, content providers, and application providers. These third parties may use cookies alone or in conjunction with web beacons or other tracking technologies to collect information about you when you use our website. The information they collect may be associated with your personal information or they may collect information, including personal information, about your online activities over time and across different websites and other online services. They may use this information to provide you with interest-based (behavioral) advertising or other targeted content. We do not control these third parties’ tracking technologies or how they may be used. If you have any questions about an advertisement or other targeted content, you should contact the responsible provider directly. **Links to Third Party Sites** We offer outside links in the peaksports.com website, which link to other websites. These outside sites are not under the control of Peak Performance Sports. We are not responsible for the contents of any linked site. **Email Information** If you choose to correspond with us through email, we may retain the content of your email messages together with your email address and our responses. We provide the same protections for these electronic communications that we employ in the maintenance of information received online, mail, and telephone. This also applies when you register for our website, sign up through any of our forms using your email address or make a purchase on this site. For further information see the Email Policies below. **Email Policies** We are committed to keeping your e-mail address confidential. We do not sell, rent, or lease our subscription lists to third parties, and will not disclose your email address to any third parties except as allowed in the section titled Disclosure of Your Information. We will maintain the information you send via e-mail in accordance with applicable federal law. In compliance with the CAN-SPAM Act, all e-mails sent from our organization will clearly state who the e-mail is from and provide clear information on how to contact the sender. In addition, all e-mail messages will also contain concise information on how to remove yourself from our mailing list so that you receive no further e-mail communication from us. Our emails provide users the opportunity to opt-out of receiving communications from us and our partners by reading the unsubscribe instructions located at the bottom of any e-mail they receive from us at any time. Users who no longer wish to receive our newsletter or promotional materials may opt-out of receiving these communications by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. **Coaching or Service-Related Announcements** We will send you strictly service-related announcements on rare occasions when it is necessary to do so. For instance, you will receive confirmation of any orders, response to any email inquiries and if our service is temporarily suspended for maintenance, we will send you an email. Generally, you may not opt-out of these communications, which are not promotional in nature. This may include order confirmations, emails containing tracking number details. **Sports Psychology Newsletters and Free Reports** Gymnastics Mental Coach by Peak performance Sports, LLC has an opt-in newsletter and free reports to which you can subscribe by entering your email and name information in the box provided. This information is collected solely by Peak Performance Sports, LLC and is not shared with any third parties. You can opt out of future mailings by (1) Using the “unsubscribe” links placed at the bottom of each outgoing email, or (2) send an email to Peak Performance Sports, LLC using our contact us form: **Sports Psychology Blogs** If you use a bulletin board, blog, or chat room on this website, you should be aware that any personally identifiable information you submit there can be read, collected, or used by other users of these forums, and could be used to send you unsolicited messages. We are not responsible for the personally identifiable information that you choose to submit in these forums. To request removal of your personally identifiable information from our blog or community forum, contact us at . In some cases, we may not be able to remove your personally identifiable information, in which case we will let you know if we are unable to do so and why. **Service Providers** Peak Performance Sports, LLC fulfills and ships all orders for delivery processed on our site. We also employ the services of a service provider to process payment on our website for purchases you make on our site. The cart is co-branded as a Peak Performance Sports, LLC page while payment is collected and processed by a service provider when the “Credit Card” option is selected for payment. When you select the “PayPal” option, your payment information is processed by PayPal on behalf of Peak Performance Sports. None of these service providers are authorized to use your information for any promotional purposes or any other functions beyond the ones described above. Access to Information To access, delete or update your information on our site such as your email address, please contact us via email with your request at: . **Clear Gifs (Web Beacons)** We employ \[or our third-party partner employs\] a software technology called clear gifs (a.k.a. Web Beacons/Web Bugs), that help us better manage content on our site by informing us what content is effective. Clear gifs are tiny graphics with a unique identifier, similar in function to cookies, and are used to track the online movements of Web users. In contrast to cookies, which are stored on a user’s computer hard drive, clear gifs are embedded invisibly on Web pages and are about the size of the period at the end of this sentence. We tie the information gathered by clear gifs to our customers’ personally identifiable information. **Security and Data Storage** Our Site has security measures in place to help protect against the loss, misuse, and alteration of the personally identifiable information and Data under our control. Peak Performance Sports, LLC employs industry-standard technology to help prevent interference or access from outside intruders. Our payment processors employ SSL \[Secure Socket Layer\] encryption to ensure that users’ sensitive information is protected and encrypted when processing credit card transactions on our site during the payment process. **Data Retention** We will retain your information for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide you services. If you wish to cancel your account or request that we no longer use your information to provide you services, contact us at . We will retain and use your information as necessary to comply with our legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce our agreements. **Reviews:** Should you decide to write a review, we request certain personally identifiable information such as your first name, last name, city and country of residence, and your email address (which we do not publish) to complete your review. Please be aware that any personally identifiable information you submit within a review can be read, collected, or used by other users. We are not responsible for any personally identifiable information that you may choose to submit in these forums. **Testimonials**: When you submit a Testimonial to Peak Performance Sports, LLC, we collect and publish your information, which may include your first and last name, sport, and or current location. We obtain your permission prior to posting your testimonial on our site. If you wish to update or delete your testimonial, you can contact us at . **Changes to Peaksports.com Policy** Peak Performance Sports, LLC may update this Policy at any time, so please review it frequently. If we make material changes to this Policy, we will notify you in this Policy, by email or by a notice posted on the home page of the Site prior to the change becoming effective. **How And Why We Collect Information** The Company collects your information in order to record and support your participation in the activities you select. If you register to download a book or resources, sign up for our newsletter, and/or purchase a product from us, we collect your information. We use this information to track your preferences and to keep you informed about the products and services you have selected to receive and any related products and/or services. As a visitor to this Website, you can engage in most activities without providing any personal information. It is only when you seek to download resources and/or register for services that you are required to provide information. If you are outside the European Union and opt to receive any free resources, participate in any free training programs, register for a webinar, register for a live event, register for a seminar, or purchase any products sold by the Company on this Website, we will automatically enroll you to receive our free email newsletter. If you do not wish to receive this newsletter, you can unsubscribe anytime. We include an “unsubscribe” link at the bottom of every email we send. If you ever have trouble unsubscribing, you can send an email to requesting to unsubscribe from future emails. If you are in the European Union and opt to receive any free resources, participate in any free training programs, register for a webinar, register for a live event, register for a seminar, or purchase any products sold by the Company on this Website, we will only enroll you to receive our free email newsletter if you affirmatively consent to it. If you do not wish to receive this newsletter, you can unsubscribe anytime. We include an “unsubscribe” link at the bottom of every email we send. If you ever have trouble unsubscribing, you can send an email to peaksportshelp@gmail.com requesting to unsubscribe from future emails. **How Do We Use the Information That You Provide to Us?** We use personal information for purposes of presenting our Website and its contents to you, providing you with information, providing you with offers for products and services, providing you with information about your subscriptions and products, carrying out any contract between you and the Company, administering our business activities, providing customer service, and making available other items and services to our customers and prospective customers. From time-to-time, we may use the information you provide to us to make you offers to purchase products and services provided by third parties in exchange for a commission to be paid to us by such third parties. Should you opt to take part in such promotions, the third parties will receive your information. From time-to-time, we may use the information you provide to us to display advertisements to you that are tailored to your personal characteristics, interests, and activities. **Disclosure Of Your Information** As a general rule, we do not sell, rent, lease or otherwise transfer any information collected whether automatically or through your voluntary action. We may disclose your personal information to our subsidiaries, affiliates, and service providers for the purpose of providing our services to you. We may disclose your personal information to a third party, including a lawyer or collection agency, when necessary to enforce our terms of service or any other agreement between you and the Company. We may provide your information to any successor in interest in the event of a merger, divestiture, restructuring, reorganization, dissolution, or other sale or transfer of some or all of the Company’s asserts and/or business. We may disclose information when legally compelled to do so, in other words, when we, in good faith, believe that the law requires it or for the protection of our legal rights or when compelled by a court or other governmental entity to do so. **How Do We Protect Your Information and Secure Information Transmissions?** We employ commercially reasonable methods to ensure the security of the information you provide to us and the information we collect automatically. This includes using standard security protocols and working only with reputable third-party vendors. Email is not recognized as a secure medium of communication. For this reason, we request that you do not send private information to us by email. However, doing so is allowed, but at your own risk. Some of the information you may enter on our website may be transmitted securely via a secure medium known as Secure Sockets Layer, or SSL. Credit Card information and other sensitive information is never transmitted via email. The Company may use software programs to create summary statistics, which are used for such purposes as assessing the number of visitors to the different sections of our site, what information is of most and least interest, determining technical design specifications, and identifying system performance or problem areas. For site security purposes and to ensure that this service remains available to all users, the Company uses software programs to monitor network traffic to identify unauthorized attempts to upload or change information, or otherwise cause damage. **Policy Changes** It is our policy to post any changes we make to our privacy policy on this page. If we make material changes to how we treat our users’ personal information, we will notify you by email to the email address specified in your account and/or through a notice on the Website home page. The date the privacy policy was last revised is identified at the bottom of the page. You are responsible for ensuring we have an up-to-date active and deliverable email address for you, and for periodically visiting our Website and this privacy policy to check for any changes. **Visitors’ GDPR Rights** If you are within the European Union, you are entitled to certain information and have certain rights under the General Data Protection Regulation. Those rights include: We will retain the any information you choose to provide to us until the earlier of: (a) you asking us to delete the information, (b) our decision to cease using our existing data providers, or (c) the Company decides that the value in retaining the data is outweighed by the costs of retaining it. You have the right to request access to your data that the Company stores and the rights to either rectify or erase your personal data. You have the right to seek restrictions on the processing of your data. You have the right to object to the processing of your data and the right to the portability of your data. To the extent that you provided consent to the Company’s processing of your personal data, you have the right to withdraw that consent at any time, without affecting the lawfulness of processing based upon consent that occurred prior to your withdrawal of consent. You have the right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority that has jurisdiction over issues related to the General Data Protection Regulation. We require only the information that is reasonably required to enter into a contract with you. We will not require you to provide consent for any unnecessary processing as a condition of entering into a contract with us. **Contact Us** The Company welcomes your questions or comments regarding the [Privacy Policy](https://www.peaksports.com/privacy-policy/): Peak Performance Sports, LLC Peak Performance Sports P.O. Box 3188 Windermere, FL 34786-3188 **E-mail:** [Contact Peak Performance Sports](https://www.peaksports.com/contact-peak-performance-sports/) **Phone:** 407-909-1700 Fax Number: 407-909-1789 --- ## Categories ### [Baseball Yips Articles for Ball Players](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/baseball-yips-articles/) **Description:** Baseball yips articles and tips for baseball and softball players to improve performance and throw more confidently again. --- ### [Throwing Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/throwing-yips/) **Description:** Throwing yips articles and tips for baseball and softball players to improve performance and throw more confidently again. --- ### [Catcher's Yips](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/catchers-yips/) **Description:** Catcher yips articles and tips for baseball and softball players to improve performance and throw more confidently again. --- ### [Baseball Throwing Problem Articles](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/baseball-throwing-problem/) **Description:** Baseball throwing problems articles and tips for baseball and softball players to improve performance and throw more confidently again. --- ### [Baseball Yips Videos](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/baseball-yips-video/) **Description:** Baseball yips videos and tips for baseball and softball players to improve performance and throw more confidently again. --- ### [Baseball Yips Cure Articles](https://www.baseball-yips.com/category/baseball-yips-cure/) **Description:** Baseball yips cure articles and tips for baseball and softball players to improve performance and throw more confidently again. ---