What are your thoughts about a catcher being pulled from a game to pitch relief. My son caught 6 2/3 and then was asked to close the game. Then, within a week was pulled after 4 innings to pitch.
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Seems like I've seen it written a few times that it is one of the worst switches to make on a young mans arm. JMO
I would consider that an "abuse" of a talented high school player.
My son went through the same thing and then he started to have a sore shoulder. Then he told his coach he could no longer pitch.He has been fine ever since.The catcher throw is a complete different throw.The catcher will throw more than any pitcher on the team just in catching.I would rather have a catcher with a good arm all year than to have him with a sore arm just so he could close a game.A catcher with a good arm will force teams to bunt and give up outs than to steal the base on a catcher with a sore arm.Take care of his arm their are many other kids on the team that want to pitch I'm sure
Thanks for the input. I did think there would be more of you with some opinions, but I guess it is not a controversal subject. It just isn't a good thing to do.
I remember a catcher from Barrington who would catch the front end of a double header and then pitch the back end of the double header. Started off with the Reds and then had a long career with the Mariners................DAN WILSON.
Great for Dan Wilson, I'm sure he had the physical genetics to make it to the MLB.
But for most HS kids, I think this is poor short-term coaching choice. Most kids playing HS ball are mere mortals with Arms that are still developing. Prime age starts at 24, not 17.
How about a kid that is asked to alternate between catching and pitching with only 1 day between games? Technically, he has had 4 days rest between pitching starts, but realistically, can you say that the stress on the arm every other day is going to tear it up?
But for most HS kids, I think this is poor short-term coaching choice. Most kids playing HS ball are mere mortals with Arms that are still developing. Prime age starts at 24, not 17.
How about a kid that is asked to alternate between catching and pitching with only 1 day between games? Technically, he has had 4 days rest between pitching starts, but realistically, can you say that the stress on the arm every other day is going to tear it up?
I agree for2njohn, one success story out of how many is not worth the risk. Like I said before there are lots of kids who want the oportunity to pitch and be developed sittin on the bench. I dont think you cant intertwine those two positions.Just not wise.
The player in question is a 15 year old high school freshman. Does this make it a worse choice due to age and development?