Is Size a Factor...Throwin Hard?

I have run across a few people lately, young and old, who have asked me a relatively simple question with a relatively complicated answer.

"How can I throw the baseball harder? and Does being taller mean I will throw harder?"

Pretty good questions to be sure, born out of a desire to be the best pitcher they can be and hopefully pitch at the professional level no doubt. When I answer these types questions, I try to be as honest as I can when I say... "There are many many ways to skin a cat." Of course, what I mean is that all different types of bodies are able to generate powerful velocity. Whether its Tim Lincecum who is barely 6 feet tall, or Randy Johnson at 6' 11", you can generate velocity in many many ways. Both of these guys throw in the mid 90's.

I will say this however. As a general rule, the taller you are and the more athletic your build, the more appealing you would be as a pitcher to professional scouts. Of course, if you are 6'5" and built like a gladiator, but throw the ball 75mphs....scouts won't give you a look. However, for example, if you are tall and lanky with average velocity in high school (let's say 6'2", 180lbs, throwin 85mphs) scouts may be inclined to give you a chance in the hopes that you may develop better velocity as you mature. So there is a benefit to being taller and "looking like a pitcher." Still, the important thing to realize is that the best way to get drafted is to throw with good velocity or be extremely successful throughout the last two years of your high school career. This is when the scouts and college coaches will be most interested in you and most likely to truly analyze your skill.

Another word about your "build." Scouts are generally turned off by those with poor athleticism You are doing yourself no favors by being out of shape during the baseball season. Of course, being too muscular (like a body builder) would be detrimental to your draftability as well. The most similar build I can compare it too would be that of a slightly more muscular basketball player.

So in summation, being taller doesn't guarauntee you will throw harder. However, being taller in conjunction with a pitcher's build, does increase your stock with college and pro scouts.

Hopefully that clears up any confusion from my young readers and parents.

Until Next Time!!