Just a few weeks ago, Texas Rangers team doctor and renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Keith Meister discussed the current state of arm injuries in baseball in a fascinating interview. One standout point he made was the impact of “designer pitches” on the challenges faced in today’s game. If you missed the interview, check it out around the 2:00 mark to hear his insights.
Dr. Meister highlighted that the increased use of pitches like the sweeper, which has significant horizontal movement, is associated with higher injury risk. To achieve this movement, pitchers must grip the ball tightly and manipulate it, putting strain on muscles throughout the arm. Similar to how new movement patterns can stress the body, learning and implementing these pitches quickly can lead to increased risk.
A real-world example of this concept is seen in Lance Armstrong’s transition to marathon running, where his lack of preparation resulted in injury risk despite his elite athletic background. Similarly, introducing new pitches without proper training and buildup can pose significant risks for pitchers.
Pitchers like Max Scherzer demonstrate a gradual and calculated approach to incorporating new pitches, allowing time for the body to adapt and develop strength. Unlike in the past, advancements in technology now enable pitchers to quickly learn and master new pitches, leading to increased usage at higher levels of competition.
The current pitching injury epidemic is influenced by factors such as early specialization, high velocity pitching, increased game specialization, grip concerns, reduced recovery time, and shorter offseasons. Addressing these issues is crucial in mitigating the risks faced by pitchers in today’s game.
In conclusion, while “designer pitches” themselves are not inherently problematic, the way they are introduced and integrated into pitching practices needs to be reevaluated. Dr. Meister’s insights shed light on the complex challenges faced by pitchers in the modern era and emphasize the importance of a more strategic and cautious approach to pitch design and usage.
