- Fri Dec 20, 2024 11:51 am
#3486
Is the obsession with velocity killing baseball? A recent MLB study points the finger at the ever-increasing speed of pitches as a major culprit behind the surge in pitching injuries. But is it really that simple? Are we overlooking other contributing factors?
The study suggests that the push for faster pitches, starting at a young age, is the primary driver of injuries. This raises some serious questions about player development. Are young pitchers sacrificing long-term health for short-term gains? Are coaches and scouts prioritizing velocity over mechanics and control, creating a ticking time bomb for these young arms?
While the study highlights velocity, I wonder if the overall pitching workload is also to blame. Are pitchers throwing more pitches overall, even with shorter outings? Between bullpen sessions, pre-game warmups, and the rise of pitch design work, are arms simply being overworked?
The study also touches on the increased success rate of Tommy John surgery. Has this created a sense of complacency? Are players and teams viewing it as an inevitable procedure rather than a serious injury? Does this mentality contribute to pushing pitchers too hard, knowing surgery is an option?
The study doesn't offer easy solutions, and frankly, some of the proposed fixes seem downright counterproductive. Moving the mound back? Mandating workloads? These feel like band-aids on a gaping wound.
Where do we go from here? How do we balance the desire for high-velocity pitching with the need to protect players' health? Is it time to rethink player development from the ground up? Or are we destined to watch a generation of pitchers break down before our eyes? Let's discuss.
The study suggests that the push for faster pitches, starting at a young age, is the primary driver of injuries. This raises some serious questions about player development. Are young pitchers sacrificing long-term health for short-term gains? Are coaches and scouts prioritizing velocity over mechanics and control, creating a ticking time bomb for these young arms?
While the study highlights velocity, I wonder if the overall pitching workload is also to blame. Are pitchers throwing more pitches overall, even with shorter outings? Between bullpen sessions, pre-game warmups, and the rise of pitch design work, are arms simply being overworked?
The study also touches on the increased success rate of Tommy John surgery. Has this created a sense of complacency? Are players and teams viewing it as an inevitable procedure rather than a serious injury? Does this mentality contribute to pushing pitchers too hard, knowing surgery is an option?
The study doesn't offer easy solutions, and frankly, some of the proposed fixes seem downright counterproductive. Moving the mound back? Mandating workloads? These feel like band-aids on a gaping wound.
Where do we go from here? How do we balance the desire for high-velocity pitching with the need to protect players' health? Is it time to rethink player development from the ground up? Or are we destined to watch a generation of pitchers break down before our eyes? Let's discuss.
- By Anonymous