Quinn Priester Relies On Video For Positives And Opportunities

The former first round pick discusses how he improves from watching video

Photo Credit: Ryan Palencer

Quinn Priester is a visual learner. 

In fact, he has been from an early age. Much was made of Priester’s use of YouTube and video to develop his arsenal he turns to on the hill still today.

Additionally, with the emphasis on video and being able to make adjustments real time across the game, Priester’s upbringing with visual tactics play into a strength for the right hander.

“I think I’ve always been someone who learns from watching,“ Priester said. “I’ve been able to watch somebody do a movement, and just be able to do it myself and feel that. I think that’s why I’ve always gravitated toward YouTube, and watching stuff…In this game, being able to learn that way is very important. Continuing to do that is one of my strengths.”

There is certainly an emphasis on making adjustments and improving. However, Priester doesn’t just dwell on the negatives when it comes to watching himself and learning.

“When I’m trying to learn from something I’m doing well, I’ll go and watch to see it,” Priester said. “When I see it, that’s when it really registers.“

Growing up, Priester pointed toward Noah Syndergaard, when he was throwing really hard, as somebody he tried to imitate. He also admits that he loved Jake Arrieta‘s step across mechanics and lists Mark Prior as another strong influence.

Some of those hurlers he studied were winners, and he was able to incorporate their work into his technique. Others, he tried and it didn’t garner the same positive outcomes.

“They were all so different,“ Priester said. “I just took what worked, and kept moving. I tried the step across, and it did not work, so I stopped doing it. I had a lot of fun exploring that.”

In fact, continually trying to improve, and even just tinkering with things, is what keeps the game fresh for Priester. It’s an aspect that he always hopes to carry with him throughout his career.

“That has kept my love for the game super fresh all of the time,” Priester said. “I’ve tried to do different things, not because they necessarily make me a Cy Young, but just because they are fun to do. That’s something I never want to lose, just being able to have fun out there.“

Clearly, in his first go around with the Pirates, Priester had some opportunities to improve his craft. Back in his time with Indianapolis, Priester’s adjustments have him missing more bats. 

In his first 14.2 innings back in Indianapolis, Priester has struck out 22 hitters. While his walks are also up, Priester has not had a significant stretch of over nine K/9 since A-Ball. 

Priester has seen a jump in his velocity since the option. Only time will tell if it’s sustainable. Regardless, based on history, he will be watching video of the positive in an attempt to maintain.