10 Commandments For Pitchers by Herb Pennock : A Legendary List on Baseball Almanac

The 10 Commandments For Pitchers

The Knight of Kennett Square pitched in the Major Leagues from 1912 through 1934. He had a career earned run average of 3.60 during that timeframe and became a well respected pitcher who was best known for his knowledge and understanding of the art of pitching. This legendary list first appeared during the mid-forties and variations have occurred including the added eleventh commandment below the initial ten (also written by Herb Pennock).

"Always pitch to the catcher and not the hitter." - Herb Pennock

The 10 Commandments For Pitchers by Herb Pennock (1940s)
#	Commandment
1	Develop your faculty of observation.
2	Conserve your energy.
3	Make contact with players, especially catchers and infielders, and listen to what they have to say.
4	Work everlastingly for control.
5	When you are on the field always have a baseball in your hand and don't slouch around. Run for a ball.
6	Keep studying the hitters for their weak and strong points. Keep talking with your catchers.
7	Watch your physical condition and your mode of living.
8	Always pitch to the catcher and not the hitter. Keep your eye on that catcher and make him your target before letting the ball go.
9	Find your easiest way to pitch, your most comfortable delivery and stick to it.
10	Work for what is called a rag arm. A loose arm can pitch overhanded, side arm, three quarter, underhanded, any old way, to suit the situation at hand.
The 10 Commandments For Pitchers by Herb Pennock

The 11th Commandment For Pitchers by Herb Pennock
#	Commandment
11	Don't beef at the umpire. Keep pitching with confidence and control of yourself as well as the ball. Don't get it into your head the umpire is your worst enemy. Fury is as hard on you physically as emotionally.
The 11th Commandment For Pitchers by Herb Pennock

Did you know that Herb Pennock was undefeated in World Series games — winning five games and losing none over the course of his career?

Herb Pennock played at the Major League level right after he finished High School and won eleven games during his rookie season as a major league pitcher.

The nickname "The Knight of Kennett Square" was bestowed upon Pennock because he hailed from the small town of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.

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