Dad04, I'm obviously not arguing with your observations. You've seen what you have seen. But my observations have been that a 6-8 week winter break from pitching can be very beneficial. Perhaps it is dependent upon the individual pitcher.
I have seen very little loss of command during the break, with any loss gone by the third bullpen or so. I have seen increased velocity. Rather than a six week layoff requiring six weeks to be back in throwing shape, I have seen only about two to three weeks.
Again, this must vary with the individual pitcher.