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Justbaseball, Congratulations on the success of your team. I would like to add a comment, however. Three weeks ago our son, 16, underwent
Tommy John surgery performed by Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham. When asked why, in his opinion he is seeing more young pitchers break down and require TJ surgery than ever before, he didn't hesitate to say that the presence of a radar gun is at the top of his list. He said that 10-13 year olds see a gun, and muscle up and attempt to throw harder than their bodies are capable of. HIS point was, who cares how hard players at this age are throwing? Teach them a changeup and loose the radar gun.
Last edited by itsrosy
Kids have been trying to throw as hard as they can since the game was called rounders. Having a radar gun is just another tool to measure ones ability. I understand parents need to find fault outside of their own house, but lets be honest; arm injuries are from not warming-up properly, throwing to much in a single outing or throwing to often.
There will be a handful of 12's throw 75-76 every year across the country.

If you throw 68-72, you're probably in the top 1%.

If you throw 60-65, you will overpower most of your fellow Little Leaguers.

55-58 is a typical top pitcher on a LL team.

50-55 is B/B+ LL caliber speed. You can still be successful if you PITCH, i.e., change speeds, don't walk people. Or, if you're lefty!

45-50 is where just about anybody can throw.

Below 45, either you need to grow some or perhaps pitching is not for you.

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