Overhead Arm Angles Redux?

Looking at clips I'd say that neither Clemens or Schilling throws straight over the top although Schilling does lean more resulting in throwing the ball downhill a bit more. It isn't what I'd call a true natural overhand slot. I'd say Clemens throws 3/4.

The advantages of throwing more overhand is that you get more of a downward plane resulting in more ground balls.

While 1. from your post may tend to be true with some pitchers it isn't a given.

2. from your post would depend on the player and I'd say there's a lot of risk in changing a player's natural arm slot unless there's a clear problem to be solved.

Generally speaking players who throw more overhand tend to stay more upright and take advantage of throwing downhill on both their fastball and their offspeed pitches.

Generally speaking players who tend to throw more 3/4 or sidearm tend to get lower and can throw high in the zone more effectively.

There are many exceptions to the rule.

Almost all pitchers throw nearly parallel with the line of their shoulders. It is only the pitcher whose shoulders are horizontal and his arm well overhead who has a higher risk of damaging his arm due to his arm slot.

In my mind, I can visualize a LHP being able to throw at a more overhand delivery easier than a righty. Is that true or does it just vary from pitcher to pitcher?

Sidearmers seem to rely less on the fastball and change, but more on the breaking stuff/junk.

CADad, I see your point about the last statement you made. But is it better to throw at 3/4 all the time? It seems that is the slot that is least prone to injury if you do it right.

AKBaseball20,
I'd recommend throwing at the slot that works best for you and doesn't hurt your arm, whatever slot that might be. My son tends to be a bit more effective when he throws a bit more overhand and tends to throw a bit harder when he throws 3/4. As long as his elbow doesn't drop below his shoulder I don't worry about his arm slot.

CA Dad, thanks for posting...

So the reccomendation is not to mess with the God given arm slot but maybe add another if need be and comfortable?

I have thought about that with the shoulders...If an overhead pitcher "clears" dropping and slightly turning his front shoulder it would take some of the potential impingement away.

Is that downward angle considered to be an asset or a hinderance?

Now please an opinion, is there much call for overhand pitchers. In collge? Beyond?