Baseball Resources
Ballplayer Field - Feb 2021
Right Choice?
Here are a few better options (clickable links):
This calendar is a great resource assuming a healthy athlete during a ‘normal’ year. Intended primarily for ages 13 & up. Injuries or other events will require adjustment.
MLB Pitch Smart
Ages 7-8 - 50 pitches max per game. 20 pitches in a game = mandatory 1 day rest. 35 pitches in a game = mandatory 2 days rest
Ages 9-10 - 75 pitches max per game. 20 pitches in a game = mandatory 1 day rest. 35 pitches in a game = mandatory 2 days rest
Ages 11-12 - 85 pitches max per game. 20 pitches in a game = mandatory 1 day rest. 35 pitches in a game = mandatory 2 days rest
Ages 13-14 - 95 pitches max per game. 20 pitches in a game = mandatory 1 day rest. 35 pitches in a game = mandatory 2 days rest
Ages 15-16 - 95 pitches max per game. 30 pitches in a game = mandatory 1 day rest. 45 pitches in a game = mandatory 2 days rest.
Ages 17-18 - 105 pitches max per game. 30 pitches in a game = mandatory 1 day rest. 45 pitches in a game = mandatory 2 days rest.
Ballplayer notes in addition to Pitch Smart guidelines:
Max pitches per game should only occur after a ‘build up’ period. Our recommendation is to limit the first pitching outing to ~25 pitches and build by no more than 20 pitches in each subsequent outing. For example, a 13 year old player should throw at least 2 bullpens before his first game. Then in game 1, he should pitch ~25 pitches. In his second game, he can throw ~45 pitches. Then, ~65 pitches in game 3. Up to 85 pitches in game 4. And up to 95 pitches max for the remaining games of the season.
If a break of more than 2 weeks is taken from pitching, there needs to be another build up period to prevent a large spike in pitching volume.
We recommend playing catch at least 4 days per week during any competitive season. Ideally up to 6 days per week. This helps to keep the arm in shape and prevent an acute spike on the weekend when games are generally played.
The 3 biggest risk factors for injury are:
Pitching while fatigued - As a pitcher gets tired in a game, his form breaks down which leads to more strain on the throwing arm. This is reduced by building up regular throwing volume, and building strength in the players legs, core, upper body & grip.
Pitching without proper rest - Recovery is extremely important to be prepared for the next outing. Recovery is expedited by continuing to throw on subsequent days, improving metabolic conditioning, building better overall strength, and staples like proper nutrition, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough sleep.
Pitching with poor pitching mechanics leading to excessive stress on the throwing elbow or shoulder. A trained coach with experience pitching at a high level can generally see signs of a pitching motion that may ultimately lead to injury. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to pitching mechanics. Every player has a different body type, natural arm action, and ability to move efficiently. A good pitching instructor or coach can use these factors to help optimize a pitcher’s mechanics in order to reduce the risk of injury, as well as improve both control and velocity.