What is the right formula?
Limits on innings pitched had good intent but it
has had little to no influence on a pitcher's
use, overuse, or recovery. Some form of pitch
count restrictions have to be in the equation
too. It’s simple to say don’t over use your
pitchers, let them get enough rest and teach
them proper pitching mechanics but there has
to be some set guidelines that actually allow
for that to happen. Coaches both in school and
summer have to be sensitive to preserving the
arm health of young pitchers and do it. Wins
are great but not at the cost of a young man’s
arm. This isn’t just on the shoulders of High
School baseball but we also don’t want to keep
our “Heads in the Sand” as pitchers injuries
continue to increase. High school baseball is
just another piece of the puzzle. This means
High School coaches and summer programs have to communicate.
We spoke with the NFHS. The NFHS is conducting a symposium this summer discussing
the arm issue and from this possible pitch count suggestions to the states. The symposium will consist of their own staff, Dr. James Andrews with the American Sports
Medicine Institute, USA Baseball and reps from MLB to name a few. There will probably
never be a mandated rule for High School to have pitch counts – only suggested
guidelines.
The appropriate action for both High School and summer programs is to adopt the
MLB Pitch Smart Guidelines.