Interesting perspective, infielddad. I'm no data guru, so I can't prove this, but doesn't it seem like today, more young players who can pitch and hit are being pushed or pulled toward pitching than ever before? There's a 2015 stud on JP's summer team from NY - three-hole outstanding hitter, average and power ... excellent 3B - and he brings it 92-95 from the mound.
I'm almost certain he'll be drafted to pitch -- and isn't 'the game' potentially losing out on a really good hitter who COULD have more long-term impact with the stick, playing every day?
bballman - you're right of course. But still, those 50% who are pitchers were generally more highly recruited and got higher bonuses. Why?
I looked at 1970-1979 1st round MLB draft. Out of 245 players drafted, 89 were pitchers: 36%. I should know, but did teams carry fewer arms then?
back then it was usually 4 starters one swing man and four relievers for a total of 9 pitchers.... or 36% of the roster (9 of 25)