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Read What Others
       Have to Say...

 

"Midwest
Baseball is no
longer just a
summer sport.
"

~ Steve Frusolone

Pitcher Perfect

One of the biggest misconceptions about the resiliency of youth baseball and softball players is that they can't hurt their arms by throwing too many pitches or with poor pitching mechanics.  WRONG.

Followed by years of research, the ASMI (American Sports Medicine Institute) has published these pitch count recommendations and pitching guidelines that Diamond Academy follows and youth coaches should also follow:

Pitch Counts

Age Max. Pitches
Per Game
Max. Games
Per Week
8-10 52 2
11-12 68 2
13-14 76 2
15-16 91 2
17-18 106 2

Recovery Times

Age 1 Day Rest 2 Day Rest 3 Day Rest 4 Day Rest
8-10 21 34 43 51
11-12 27 35 55 58
13-14 30 36 56 70
15-16 25 38 62 77
17-18 27 45 62 89

Age Recommendation For Learning Various Pitches

The survey also presented recommendations for the age at which a player could learn different types of pitches. These are listed below.

Pitch Age
Fastball 8 - 10
Change-Up 10 - 13
Curve ball 14 - 16
Knuckle ball 15 - 18
Slider 16 - 18
Fork ball 16 - 18
Screw ball 17 - 19

Pitch Count Plus Other Factors

Other factors to take into account as you determine, "How many pitches should I allow my player to pitch?".

    Some Additional ASMI Survey Conclusions:
     
  • A pitcher should be limited to two appearances per week.
  • Participation in multiple leagues, playing other positions, and practice should be considered when defining and regulating rest.
  • Improper technique is a major factor in injury potential.
  • Conditioning of the throwing arm and entire body can reduce a young pitcher's risk of injury.
  • While the number of pitches should be limited, the young athlete should be encouraged to throw. This includes playing catch, playing other positions besides pitcher, and practicing pitching. When symptoms of arm discomfort or fatigue arise, longer periods of rest are recommended.

You can find the complete ASMI research at: http://www.asmi.org/SportsMed/youth/PITCHCNT.PDF


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