The traditional overhand pitching motion is so ingrained in the game of baseball that the thought of a pitcher throwing underhand may seem foreign to some. But why don’t pitchers throw underhand? After all, it is certainly a viable option when it comes to getting a baseball from the pitcher’s mound to home plate. The answer is a combination of history, effectiveness, and overall preference.
History of Pitching
The history of overhand pitching dates back to the mid-1800s when the game of baseball was still in its infancy. Overhand pitching was first introduced in the mid-1860s, when the National Association of Base Ball Players (NABBP) issued a rule that all pitchers must deliver the ball with an arc no less than six feet high. This rule quickly gained traction, as it allowed pitchers to deliver a faster pitch while also giving the batter less time to react. As the game evolved, so did the velocity and movement of pitches, leading to the development of the modern fastball and curveball.
Overhand Pitching vs. Underhand Pitching
When comparing overhand versus underhand pitching, the biggest difference is velocity. Overhand pitches are thrown significantly faster than underhand pitches, making it much harder for batters to hit. Overhand pitching also allows for a greater variety of pitches, including the curveball, slider, and changeup. On the other hand, underhand pitches are generally much slower and have less movement, making it easier for the batter to make contact.
Moreover, overhand pitching is more consistent than underhand pitching. The overhand delivery allows a pitcher to repeat the same motion time and time again, which is essential in order to maintain control of the ball. Underhand pitching, however, can be more difficult to control due to the variation in arm angle and release point.
Preference for Overhand Pitching
The preference for overhand pitching is largely due to the success that it has brought to the game. Over the course of baseball’s history, pitchers who have relied on overhand deliveries have achieved some of the greatest success. From Walter Johnson to Sandy Koufax to Clayton Kershaw, overhand pitchers have dominated the game for generations.
In addition, the overhand delivery has become the de facto standard in the game. It is the most common delivery seen in the major leagues and it is taught to pitchers at all levels of the game, from Little League to the professional ranks. The overhand delivery is also the easiest to teach and learn, making it the preferred method of pitching.
Conclusion
The overhand pitching delivery has been the dominant form in baseball for more than a century. While underhand pitching can be an effective alternative, there are many reasons why pitchers prefer to throw overhand. The higher velocity, greater variety of pitches, and increased consistency all make the overhand delivery the preferred method of pitching. Furthermore, the overhand delivery has achieved a great deal of success throughout the history of baseball, making it the go-to delivery for pitchers of all levels.