re: Pitching staff injuries

Yes, I agree, there are several issues at play.

1) Way too much throwing in travel ball at an age in which the body is developing(The kids pitch, then play in the field, along with practice 3 days or more a week. And they are doing this almost year round)

2) Bad Mechanics-90% or more of dads, travel ball coaches and high school coaches really don't know what good mechanics are. By the time they get to college, it is really difficult to change.(the kid is throwing 90, he isn't going to change unless he gets hurt, and that is a big maybe even then. And sadly, many believe if you have high velocity, that your mechanics must be good. Not true!)

3. Focus on high velocity-The kids know at an early age that 90 is the magic number for college ball. They and their parents seek out anyway they can get velocity up. This leads to overthrowing at a time when the body can't handle that stress. Microtears start and can lead to a full tear of the UCL, labrum tears, and general arm soreness.

4. Lack of proper preparation for game intensity throwing- This is something that is being debated among surgeons, physical therapists and others. What is the proper way to get a pitcher ready for game level intensity and quantity pitch demand? Some are starting to implement an off season program that emphasizes exercises that prepare the muscles and ligaments for the load of the season. Most pitchers have imbalances that place additional stress on the arm that can easily be addressed with a proper program. I think there is much validity to this thinking, but more research needs to be done. However, I would bet most coaches are doing things much like they have done for years and years. Unfortunately, what worked in the past will probably not work in the future due to the travel ball growth.