The surge in arm injuries among pitchers in Major League Baseball (MLB) has become a pressing issue. Recent studies point to increased velocity and maximum effort as primary culprits. This trend is not only affecting professional players but also trickling down to youth levels, raising concerns about the future of baseball.
As MLB grapples with potential solutions, experts emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach that starts with young athletes and extends to professional leagues.
The Alarming Rise in Pitching Injuries
According to a recent report by Major League Baseball, the number of pitcher injured list placements has more than doubled from 212 in 2005 to 485 in 2024. Days spent on the injured list have skyrocketed from 13,666 to 32,257 in the same period. The increase in Tommy John surgeries, particularly among young players, underscores the severity of the issue.
Velocity and Maximum Effort: The Double-Edged Sword
MLB’s study highlights that the emphasis on throwing with increased velocity and using maximum effort on every pitch is a significant factor contributing to the rise in injuries.
Cleveland Guardians right-hander Tanner Bibee draws an analogy to weightlifting, noting that pushing one’s body to its limits consistently increases the risk of injury.
Chicago Cubs left-hander Matthew Boyd echoes this sentiment, pointing out that while velocity is crucial for getting drafted, it often comes at the expense of long-term health.
The challenge lies in balancing the immediate benefits of high velocity with the long-term goal of career longevity.
Impact on Youth Baseball
The trend of prioritizing velocity is not limited to professional players. Data from the Perfect Game National Showcase reveals a dramatic increase in high school pitchers throwing 95 mph or higher, from three in 2018 to 36 in 2024.
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This has led to a concerning rise in injuries among young athletes, with 35 players selected in the top 10 rounds of last year’s amateur draft having undergone Tommy John surgery, compared to just four in 2005.
The Role of Youth Training Programs
Eric Cressey, director of player health and performance for the New York Yankees, advocates for changes at the youth level to address this issue.
He highlights the problems caused by young pitchers entering high-intensity throwing programs without proper preparation, often leading to significant injuries.
Cressey recommends a scouting dead period during the offseason to allow young athletes to rest and recover.
San Francisco Giants pitching coach J.P. Martinez supports the idea of year-round throwing but cautions against high-effort throwing during the offseason, as it could increase susceptibility to injury.
The key, according to Martinez, is maintaining a consistent workload to avoid abrupt transitions that can strain the arm.
Proposed Solutions and Industry-Wide Changes
Guardians pitching coach Carl Willis suggests a return to traditional pitching techniques that emphasize locating pitches and changing speeds, rather than relying solely on power.
This approach could reduce the pressure on pitchers to throw at maximum effort constantly, thereby decreasing the risk of injury.
MLB’s Pitch Smart Initiatives
MLB has introduced Pitch Smart initiatives to set recommended workload limits for young pitchers, aiming to reduce the likelihood of pitching with fatigue.
However, ensuring adherence to these guidelines remains a challenge, especially when young athletes and their coaches prioritize velocity to impress scouts.
Eric Cressey points out that many injuries seen in professional players today can be traced back to improper training during their teenage years. He emphasizes the need for a cultural shift in how young pitchers are developed, with a focus on long-term health over short-term gains.
Conclusion: A Call for Comprehensive Reform
The rise in pitching injuries in MLB and youth baseball is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach.
Increased velocity and maximum effort are significant factors, but the solution lies in better training practices, adherence to workload guidelines, and a cultural shift towards prioritizing long-term health over immediate performance.
As MLB and youth baseball organizations continue to explore potential solutions, the insights from experts like Eric Cressey and Carl Willis highlight the importance of starting reforms at the grassroots level.
By addressing the root causes of these injuries and promoting safer training practices, the baseball community can work towards a future where young athletes can enjoy long, healthy careers.
For more detailed insights, you can read the full article on AP News.
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