by Kevin O'Connell

Created on: December 26, 2008

Baseball throwing velocity is a product of genetics relative to ligaments, tendons, and the muscles associated with the rotator cuff. These physical structures determine arm speed. Arm speed equates to throwing velocity: the baseball can only go as fast as the speed of the arm at the point of release.

To take full advantage of the physical capacity to throw a baseball requires the learning and practicing of the following mechanics and technique:

The finger tips

The way in which the ball comes off the finger tips determines the ball's rotation. Finger tips that are spread wide place greater length of each finger in contact with the ball increasing surface friction. Friction reduces velocity. Fingers that are placed more closely together minimize surface contact and allow the ball to leave both finger tips simultaneously. This release gives the ball a tighter, more consistent rotation. Rotation equals velocity.

Hand directly behind the ball

Think of this position as similar to delivering a high five. At the point of release the hand has to be behind the ball so that the target, the ball, and the hand are at the instance of release squarely in line with each other. This position promotes the most efficient ball rotation and takes full advantage of the wrist and finger tips.

Elbow higher than the shoulder

At the point of release the elbow must be at a point higher than the shoulder. This range of motion will allow the hand to stay square behind the ball and in addition will minimize negative stress to the biceps tendon.

Hand above the ball

At the load position, that point at which the ball is drawn back furthest from the body, the hand must be on top of the ball so that the back of the hand is to the sky and the palm is flat to the ground. This position will promote the most efficient rotation of the wrist to the cocked position prior to release.

Breaking the hands

Break the hands, the separation of the ball from the glove, at the same instance at which the front foot starts toward the target. This coordination of movement will ensure that the upper body mechanics stay in rhythm with those of the lower body.

Up, down, and out

The most efficient range of motion of the front leg is up, down, and then out. To initiate the throwing mechanics, the knee of the lead leg is drawn in a straight line up and towards the belt buckle. Prior to any movement forward, the leg is dropped 180 degrees to the ground, and then slides along the surface in a line directly toward the target. This

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