Pitchers are human. We share a common goal - to get hitters out. The way we go about it is uncommon, however. Most are focused on maximizing velocity, especially in recent years. Undoubtedly, the thrill of touching 80, 90, or 100 (depending on your age) is addictive, but as satisfying it may feel to touch a long-wanted speed milestone, success on the field is not equal to the radar gun readings. It helps give some confidence, but after a 90mph fastball gets lined to the gap for a double - and it will - it comes time to get back to why you are out there in the first place.
Be yourself.
Avoid comparisons to peers or opponents who might have more success. If you choose to compare, be careful and don't be opposed to going back to being yourself if it isn't working.
It is hard to replicate maximum effort, so don't try to. Successful pitchers know how to keep their game at a consistent "95%" level - knowing that there are times in every game where you need to reach back for the "full throttle" pitch. It will be there for you, trust your ability to get that important strikeout when your team really needs it. There are many talented guys who go for the strikeout with practically every batter they face - and they are good at it. It is important for you to find what you are good at, for example:
- Throwing a 3-2 change up with confidence.
- Attacking a guy with a steady diet of sliders (you can challenge a hitter with off-speed stuff).
- Knowing that you have runners on and need a ground ball, so you pound a hitter with power sinkers (two seamers) and get a big double play.
There are many ways to win a baseball game. Find your way and be great at it. Your coaches will respect and trust you in high leverage situations if they know what to expect from you. Consistency takes confidence in your work habits and embracing the "boring stuff" - the things you work on with no one pushing you and you are far away from a ball field. The times when your friends don't understand what you are doing but you have to find time to do it despite the temptation to skip a session.
Doing something for 10 minutes is better than doing nothing for an hour. Stretching, running, video study, lifting, asking questions, talking with teammates, are all things that can keep you improving. Take what your body gives you and if that means a shorter session, fine. There will be many more days of high quality and higher quantity work for you.
If you aren't throwing quality strikes with all of your pitches, you will have trouble getting quality innings. Your coach wants wins more than high velocity guys who aren't throwing competitive pitches.