Baseball is a sport that requires a tremendous amount of skill and dedication to succeed. One of the most important positions on the field is the pitcher, and the pitcher’s success or failure can have a major impact on the outcome of the game. As such, it is critical for pitchers to have a regimented approach to their throwing program in order to maximize their performance. One of the most common questions asked by pitchers is whether or not they should be throwing every day.
The Benefits of Throwing Every Day
There are several advantages to throwing every day. One of the most obvious is that it helps to keep the pitcher’s arm strong and healthy. Throwing every day helps the arm to stay conditioned and can help to prevent injuries. Additionally, throwing every day can help to improve a pitcher’s mechanics, as it allows for more frequent practice and refinement. This can be especially beneficial for young pitchers who are still developing their mechanics.
Another benefit of throwing every day is that it can help to build a pitcher’s confidence. Throwing every day allows a pitcher to become more comfortable with his or her mechanics, which can lead to improved performance. This can be especially beneficial for pitchers who tend to be more timid in games and who need to develop some mental toughness.
Finally, throwing every day can help to build a pitcher’s endurance. Throwing every day allows a pitcher to develop the strength and stamina needed to be effective in long outings. This can be especially beneficial for pitchers who are expected to go deep into games.
The Drawbacks of Throwing Every Day
As beneficial as throwing every day can be, there are also some potential drawbacks that should be considered. One of the most obvious is the potential for injury. Throwing every day can put a great deal of stress on the arm and can increase the risk of injury. Additionally, the increased workload can lead to fatigue, which can also increase the risk of injury.
Another potential drawback is that throwing every day can lead to a decrease in performance. Overuse of the arm can lead to decreased velocity, decreased accuracy, and decreased movement on pitches. This can be especially problematic for pitchers who rely heavily on their arms to be successful.
Finally, throwing every day can take away from other important aspects of the game. If a pitcher is throwing every day, he or she may not have enough time to focus on other aspects of the game, such as conditioning, nutrition, and mental preparation. This can be especially detrimental for pitchers who are expected to perform at a high level.
The Bottom Line
While throwing every day can be beneficial in some cases, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks before committing to this approach. It is also important to consider the individual pitcher in question and what their specific needs are. Some pitchers may benefit from throwing every day, while others may not. Ultimately, it is up to the individual pitcher to decide what is best for them.