I think the biggest misconception is that one of them is better than the other. As long as you stay low to the ground it doesn't matter if you step in front or behind, it's up to the preference of the player. Personally I have had success with both and I use them interchangeably.

In my experience and opinion both have benefits.....The crow hop can generate momentum and the other can be utilized for accuracy.....

My 14 year old son does the step behind and his coach is trying to get him to change to the crow hop. He has a really good arm and is fast. His coach says by not doing the crow hop he is hindering his throw... My son is comfortable with the step behind though.

I do Step Behind In the Infield And I do Crow Hop outfield so I can throw full force

Step behind is superior

Neither is better than the other. I literally interchange them depending on the position I may be forced to field the ball in. Although the crow hop is not intended to throw faster but farther. A lot of smaller players can’t make those long throws with out the crow hop. But it’s all what works for the individual player.

So many advances in baseball technique over the last twenty years. I like that you show advantages of each. In motocross, riders try to spend the last time possible in the air, so energy isnt wasted going vertical. Crow hop definitely can be over done. Forward movement is what you want.

i think maybe the scrawny guys with the weak arms might need that big crow hop (into a somersault) to get it in sometimes

It’s amazing how many college coaches insist on driving the throwing knee UP instead of more forward. You need to question everything especially if it doesn’t make sense. And it doesn’t make sense to force your body up if the throw is to go forward.

i prefer step behind its more comfortable for me

As a CF, I use the crow hop if there's a runner to be thrown out at 3rd or home. I also try not to overdo my hop staying low to the ground and my hop is more of a 70-degree hop toward the play (not straight up) just to gain momentum. Find that the hop gives me extra 'umph' on my throws.

Matt,

This is so cool. Thanks!

good basic video thanks

ANTONELLI---ABSOLUTELY ON THE SPOT. AGREE WITH YOU IN TO TO

Depends on angle of throw, but I much prefer step in front over behind. Step behind I find is less powerful. Crow hop I've never liked or taught. What's the point of jumping? But when you step your foot in front you have more power, more flexibility on how far you can step, and it's quicker. But there are exceptions. Replacement or step behind are options depending on the situation.

Nice video!

Cool, I need to work on these type of throws myself

I think the more athletic guys will use the step behind. I do agree that the guys with a weaker arm will use crow hop to propel themselves forward into barrel role. I prefer step behind, it keeps you connected to the ground and that front side close (which prevents the ball from sailing). If you look at Jose Guillen, Vlad Guerrero, Raul Mondeai, Ichiro, those guys used the step behind more often. Catchers are thought to “drop step” when throwing to third.

hi it is brandon again i prefer the step behind. some +s are for me it feels like it gets me there faster to throw.