quote:
Originally posted by PGStaff:
Redsox,
First, if you’re a LHP, I think you mean 1 to 2 o’clock. This is the difference between high TQ and low TQ.
This is an individual thing, but the main reason for lowering the arm angle include getting more sink and run on the fastball.
The main reason for raising the arm angle would be to get more of a downward plane and better slot for the curveball. Most low arm angle guys throw sliders rather than true curve balls.
Most people have a natural slot that they throw best from. Oddly enough, lots of pitchers don’t throw in that natural slot.
With young pitchers we try to find their natural slot before working on anything else.
As always, PG has sound advice. Might chime in here with a good way to determine "natural" arm slots. Have your player go to deep centerfield and hit fungoes to him and tell him you want him to throw to second on a line. The slot he chooses will almost always be his "natural" arm slot. Be sure you don't tell him this is what you're looking for, as he may want to alter his slot to what he thinks you or the coach may want and not throw what is truly natural.
Hope this helps!