For high school baseball pitchers, while playing multiple positions when you're not on the mound may seem like a smart strategy and can help your team, it can also put you at serious risk of overuse injuries, particularly when it comes to your golden arm.

The Volume Dilemma

Let's start with the numbers. According to a study conducted by the American Sports Medicine Institute, the average high school pitcher throws an astounding 572 pitches per season – and that's just during games. Factor in practice sessions, bullpen work, and warmups, and that number skyrockets to well over 1,000 pitches per season.

Now, imagine you're also playing the field regularly, whether it's as an outfielder, infielder, or catcher. Every throw from the outfield, every toss across the diamond, and every warm-up pitch behind the plate adds to that already staggering pitch count, further taxing your arm and shoulder.

The Overuse Injury Epidemic

It's no secret that overuse injuries, particularly those related to the shoulder and elbow, have become an epidemic in youth baseball. According to a report by the American Academy of Pediatrics, nearly 60% of young pitchers experience some form of arm pain during a single season, with a significant portion of those injuries being directly attributable to overuse.

And the consequences of these injuries can be devastating, not just for a player's current season but for their entire athletic career. From chronic tendinitis and impingement issues to the dreaded ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tear that often requires Tommy John surgery, overuse injuries can derail even the most promising of baseball careers.

The Smart Approach

So, what's the solution? It's simple: if you're a pitcher who also plays the field regularly, especially with aspirations to play at the next level, you need to be smart about managing your workload and prioritizing arm care. You should also utilize VeloU for the best virtual baseball coaching.

- Follow pitch count guidelines: Stick to recommended pitch count limits for your age group, and make sure to take adequate rest between outings.

- Either stop playing the field and or definitely limit throwing from the field: Be mindful of the number of throws you're making from the outfield or across the infield, and consider taking occasional breaks to rest your arm.

- Embrace arm care routines: Incorporate comprehensive arm care exercises, such as band work, mobility drills, and soft tissue work, into your daily routine to promote recovery and reduce the risk of injury.

- Communicate with your coaches: Don't be afraid to speak up about any arm discomfort or fatigue you may be experiencing. Your coaches should be willing to work with you to manage your workload and prioritize your long-term health.

The Bottom Line

Playing multiple positions can be a valuable asset in baseball, but it's important to remember that your arm is your most valuable asset. With Velo’s online baseball training program we can help you be smart about managing your workload, prioritizing arm care, and communicating openly with your coaches. You can enjoy the benefits of versatility while minimizing the risk of overuse injuries that could potentially derail your athletic dreams.

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