Fungo,
That is what led me to thinking after I calculated everything on Boyd's calculator. We talk in terms of innings, but it is the pitch counts that boggle the mind. Fortunately Dave is in good health, has sound mechanics. I was thinking about all of those younger kids with bright futures, who are really good and taken advantage of.
I was not necessarily talking about abuse, just that over a pitcher's lifetime he throws an incredible amount. Because of DK putting in a lot of innings he will take 3 whole months off, but he could have gone and played summer ball. At some point, especially if the pitcher has a future, there has to be a line drawn and an agreement between player and coaches. I am thinking about all those summers he played ball, when he should have taken some time off.
Jemaz, I agree with you, I was not talking abut that game that one stays in for longer than he ususally does. A really good college coach will not force anyone to pitch if he is experiencing fatigue or pain.
Just food for thought for all the parents of the little guys out there.