In sports, consistency is key. That's why you see players go through the same routines over and over. Whether it's before a free throw, a pitch or a snap, routines exist in every sport, and no two are ever alike.
RELATED: Superstitious Routines of 29 Extraordinary Athletes
Some routines are simple and quick; you hardly notice them. Others are bizarre and mind-boggling to watch. Boston Red Sox pitching prospect Roniel Raudes' pre-pitch routine falls in the latter category. The 19-year-old's pre-pitch routine starts with Raudes bending down into a crouch and then taking his glove and the ball above and around his head.
Here is more of that strange action during last season.
Raudes' bizarre pre-wind-up ritual might make some batters do a double take, but it's quite traditional. Once batters get used to it, it shouldn't affect them much, but that's assuming they do get used to it. Last season, Raudes pitched for the Single-A Greenville Drive, and he had a 3.65 ERA with 104 strikeouts in 113.1 innings.
READ MORE:
- Ichiro Suzuki Hasn't Taken a Vacation Since 2005, Plans to Play in the MLB Until He's 50
- NFL WR Josh Gordon Smashes Home Runs, Continues to Prove He's a Freak of Nature
- Indians Pitcher Carlos Carrasco Ate Pizza for 90 Straight Days During His First Spring Training
Photo Credit: Getty Images // Thinkstock
