A Call to Arms -- Save Your Pitchers

Much has been written and spoken in various sports media forums this past week regarding the use (and abuse) of breaking-ball pitches by 12 year-olds in the Little League World Series games.

And, the sheer number of pitches thrown has also been a hot topic.

Bottom line? Kids are being glorified for doing two things all parents and coaches should prohibit: throwing breaking-ball pitches (curveballs especially) and enduring excessive pitch counts.

In a blog to follow this week, we'll address some startling statistics on wear and tear, surgeries and burn-out rates plaguing youth players, but today let's sum up.

1. Regardless of their biological age (vs. chronological age) 98% of these pitchers haven't finished growing. Their growth plates haven't yet sealed up in those precious arms. The more torque put on those elbows and shoulders, the more likely they'll end their career under a surgeon's knife. And they'll do so long before they reach high school.

At their age, even properly taught curveball pitching poses too large a risk to the players. Throw a change up, a circle change, a two-seam fastball and a four-seam fastball instead.

2. Again, despite some of these players looking old enough (and big enough) to have their own kids in the stands, they are throwing too many pitches. Think Kerry Wood -- the often hobbled Cubs hurler was so over-pitched through his youth and high school days that it's a wonder he has anything left. He's certainly not the type of "fresh arm" many pro scouts are looking for these days.

Jamie Reed, head trainer for the Texas Rangers recently shared two facts with us. He said that draft talks often center on looking for pitchers that BEGAN their pitching careers late in high school or early in college. He also said that pitch counts over 75 pitches per week increase risk of injury 35%.

Think of running a cord over the edge of a wooden board. Back and forth, back and forth, and you have a good simulation of what's going on in the pitchers shoulder. Too many reps at full effort equals damage and wear that cannot be undone.

So.... If you're hopeful that your son or daughter can persue their sport long past their 14th birthday, the time to start guarding their safety is now.

And, as unpopular as that may be, especially in light of the glorious world stage ESPN is providing this great game, you as a parent must be prepared to take a stand. Let your coach know you will not allow breaking ball pitches, and that you intend to limit your pitcher's workload to 50-60 pitches per week.