Over the years it seems I've heard less and less about pitchers' ability to hide the ball from the batter as long as possible. I hear it occasionally on MLB broadcasts but not often (heard it about Dontrelle Willis the other day). I guess I'm really addressing this comment about RHPs since lefties are so unorthodox, slinging it across their bodies in most cases, they probably naturally hide the ball a little better.
Watching so many young RHPs come up with what appear to be very clean mechanics (i.e. Mark Prior, Anthony Reyes, et. al.), it seems that the ball can be picked up much quicker when RHPs have this type of throwing motion. I assume that Tom House, etc. have taught these mechanics for better pitch quality, velocity, and perhaps most importantly, healthy arms.
Can a young RHP pitcher be taught to hide the ball a bit and still have solid, healthy mechanics. Or does hiding the ball imply inefficient or unhealthy mechanics? It seems to me that if the batter takes an extra tenth to pick up the pitch, that really shortens his reaction time and makes the perceived velocity that much better.
I'm curious to hear thoughts from pitchers and pitching coaches here in the group.
Thanks.
Jon
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