Physical Screen for the Baseball Pitcher

Historically, pitching instruction has followed a pattern of coaches trying to teach players “proper mechanics” without truly understanding what each individual’s proper mechanics are.  Limitations in individual mobility or stability will make moving into certain positions in the delivery difficult or even impossible. When players are coached to get into these positions, they are set up for poor performance or possibly injury.  A physical screen designed specifically for the baseball pitcher is a great way to identify any physical deficits a player may have and give the player and coach valuable information to better guide their instruction.

As noted by Mike Boyle and Gray Cook, “the body works in an alternating pattern of stable segments connected by mobile joints.  If the pattern is altered, dysfunction and compensation will occur.” This philosophy has become known as the “Joint by Joint Approach” where the following pattern is considered normal:

If there is a deficit found in one area, the areas above and below will be affected.  For example, deficits in hip mobility are commonly found in pitchers.  If there is a lack of hip mobility, the lumbar spine is going to have to sacrifice stability to make up for the hip.  If the coach is instructing the player that he needs to keep his front shoulder closed more, a common coaching cue, that requires a stable lumbar spine to allow the thoracic spine to be mobile enough to keep the shoulder closed.  If the lumbar stability is compromised due to a lack of hip mobility, then there is no way the thoracic spine can do its job and keep the front shoulder closed. This creates an incredibly frustrating situation for both coach and athlete, as well as a significant risk for injury.

By performing a movement screen designed specifically for pitchers, such as OnBaseU, we are able to identify any physical deficits in movement quality that relate to the pitching delivery.  We are then able to give the athlete specific exercises to address these deficits as well as communicate to the player’s pitching coach why they might be demonstrating certain mechanical faults.

At Complete Game, we are now offering free online introductory movement screens.  These 15 minute screens offer a one on one video screen with a physical therapist to help identify physical limitations that may impede pitching performance.  If interested, please contact Greg at gcrossman@completegamept.com for more information.