A few tips...First, stop keeping stats such as ERA, Ks, etc. The last thing you want to do is get him focusing on that. He and you need to be focused on mechanics, pitch location, and starting to understand the mental aspect of the game. The velocity will come with age/size, but you must have sound mechanics to handle the increased torque on the arm and body. Most kids I have worked with can throw just fine, but they have no idea how to actually pitch. If he can get even a small grasp on the mental aspect of pitching and understanding the concept of moving the ball around in the zone, changing eye-level, etc. he will have a HUGE head start on most kids his age. I'm not sure how knowledgeable you are on mechanics and pitching in general, but I have a couple book recommendations for you that would be beneficial for anyone. Leo Mazzone's old book Pitch Like a Pro is excellent. It will give usable throwing programs starting at Little League age. It also explains the why behind the what and has testimonials/tips from Maddux, Smoltz, etc. Tom House also has a few really good books. I've read a couple and his stuff is much more detailed, with great drills, things to look for mechanics-wise, etc. I would also advise you not to trust just anyone with your son's arm. Make sure the coaches are taking care of him and not having him throw 100 pitches one day and then playing SS the next. If you are using a pitching coach make sure it's someone legit, not just some former player who is looking to make a quick buck. Do your research on the people he is working with and observe a few bullpens to see what they are teaching. My final tip is to make sure this is something he enjoys. He may just want to go play baseball. Reading books, watching games to see how pitchers approach batters, and doing tedious drills may not be what he wants to do at this point. That's fine - don't push him. If he wants it bad enough he will do it, just make sure he knows it's all there available for him.
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