Can You Pitch Underhand in Baseball? Exploring the Unconventional Art of Submarine Pitching
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Historical Context of Underhand Pitching
- The Mechanics of Underhand Pitching
- Notable Modern Examples of Underhand Pitching
- The Impact of Underhand Pitching on the Game
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
Imagine stepping up to the plate, bat in hand, poised for a showdown with a pitcher whose delivery defies convention. As the ball approaches, you realize it’s coming at you from an unusual angle, released not from above but rather from beneath. This unexpected delivery, known as underhand or submarine pitching, is a rare sight in the world of baseball, yet it has its roots deep in the game’s history. In fact, some of the most intriguing stories in baseball involve pitchers who dared to challenge traditional norms, demonstrating that there’s more than one way to approach the mound.
In this blog post, we'll delve into the nuances of underhand pitching in baseball. We’ll explore its historical context, key figures who have successfully employed this technique, and the benefits and challenges associated with it. For players and fans alike, understanding this unique style can enrich your appreciation for the game and perhaps inspire you to think differently about your own approach to pitching or batting.
By the end of this article, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of whether you can pitch underhand in baseball, the mechanics behind it, and how it can impact gameplay. Plus, we'll touch on how Platecrate is committed to fostering a deeper connection to the game through quality gear and community engagement, so don’t miss out on our monthly subscription boxes filled with exciting baseball treasures.
The Historical Context of Underhand Pitching
Underhand pitching is not merely a quirky anomaly; it was once the standard in baseball. In the early days of the sport, the underhand delivery was the norm, allowing pitchers to utilize a natural motion that felt comfortable and fluid. In fact, many early star pitchers, like the legendary James “Pud” Galvin, relied on this style to dominate their opponents.
The Evolution of Pitching Styles
As the game evolved, so did the preferred methods of pitching. The introduction of overhand and sidearm deliveries in the late 19th century revolutionized the way the game was played. With these new styles, pitchers could achieve greater velocity and manipulate the ball in ways that were previously impossible.
However, while the underhand delivery became less common in professional baseball, it never completely vanished. Submarine pitchers such as Chad Bradford and Dan Quisenberry have shown that this technique can still be effective, particularly in modern baseball where novelty can often catch batters off guard.
Key Figures in Underhand Pitching
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Carl Mays: Perhaps one of the most notable underhand pitchers, Mays played primarily for the New York Yankees and was known for his unique delivery. His success on the mound, including a remarkable career ERA of 2.92, showcases the potential effectiveness of the underhand style.
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Chad Bradford: A more contemporary example, Bradford became famous for his submarine delivery. He was effective in the late 1990s and early 2000s, playing for several teams including the Oakland Athletics. His unusual release point made it challenging for batters to track the ball, proving that underhand pitching can still be a viable option in professional play.
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Dan Quisenberry: Known for his sinking fastball, Quisenberry was a master of deception. His underhand style allowed him to excel in the late innings, earning him multiple All-Star selections and a reputation as one of the best relievers of his era.
The Mechanics of Underhand Pitching
Understanding the mechanics of underhand pitching is crucial for both aspiring pitchers and baseball enthusiasts. This style employs a delivery that is distinct from both overhand and sidearm techniques.
How Underhand Pitching Works
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Grip: Much like traditional pitching, the grip on the ball plays a pivotal role. An underhand pitcher typically holds the ball with the fingers across the seams to maintain control and achieve movement.
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Windup: The windup for an underhand pitch is generally more fluid and involves a lower arm swing. This motion can take some getting used to for pitchers who are accustomed to overhand deliveries.
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Release Point: The release point is significantly lower than that of an overhand delivery, often occurring at or below the waist. This can create a unique trajectory for the ball, making it harder for batters to predict its path.
Advantages of Underhand Pitching
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Deception: One of the greatest advantages is the element of surprise. Most batters are not accustomed to seeing underhand pitches, which can disrupt their timing and approach.
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Lower Injury Risk: Some studies suggest that underhand pitching may reduce the risk of arm injuries, as the motion is more natural and places less stress on the shoulder and elbow compared to overhand pitching.
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Effective Movement: An underhand delivery can produce unique ball movement, including rising fastballs and breaking pitches that differ from traditional overhand throws.
Challenges of Underhand Pitching
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Velocity Limitations: Achieving high velocity is more challenging with an underhand delivery. Most submarine pitchers throw in the mid-80s to low-90s range, which may not be competitive against hard-throwing opponents.
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Limited Pitch Variety: While it is possible to throw various types of pitches underhand, the range of effective pitches is narrower compared to overhand pitchers who can easily mix in sliders, curveballs, and change-ups.
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Rarity: The unconventional nature of submarine pitching makes it a less familiar approach for most teams and batters, which can lead to a lack of support or understanding from coaches and teammates.
Notable Modern Examples of Underhand Pitching
While underhand pitching is rare in today's game, there are still players who have successfully employed this technique. Let's take a closer look at a few notable examples.
Chad Bradford
Bradford’s career in Major League Baseball is perhaps the most well-known example of successful submarine pitching in modern times. With a unique arm slot and deceptive delivery, he became a valuable asset for teams that needed a reliable late-inning reliever. His effectiveness was underscored by his ability to keep hitters off balance, leading to a long and fruitful career.
Darren O'Day
Another prominent figure in the world of submarine pitching is Darren O'Day. Known for his unorthodox delivery, O'Day has been a key contributor to multiple teams, including the Texas Rangers and the Baltimore Orioles. His underhand style allows him to achieve different movement on the ball, making him a challenging matchup for batters across the league.
The Impact of Underhand Pitching on the Game
The rarity of underhand pitchers means they can have a significant impact when they do appear. Their unique style can disrupt the rhythm of opposing teams and add an element of unpredictability to games.
Batting Against Submarine Pitchers
When batters face an underhand pitcher, they often have to adjust their approach significantly. The pitch’s trajectory and release point can lead to misjudgments and swings at pitches that would typically be strikes when delivered overhand.
This unpredictability can lead to increased strikeouts and ground balls, making submarine pitchers valuable assets, particularly in high-pressure situations.
The Role of Coaching and Development
For players interested in exploring underhand pitching, finding the right coaching and support is crucial. Many traditional baseball programs focus on overhand techniques, so it may require additional effort to find mentors who appreciate the value of a submarine approach.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the question of whether you can pitch underhand in baseball is met with an enthusiastic “yes.” While the style may not be mainstream, it holds a unique place in the game’s history and offers distinctive advantages to those willing to embrace it. The stories of pitchers like Carl Mays, Chad Bradford, and Darren O'Day remind us that innovation and creativity can lead to success, even in the face of tradition.
As you reflect on your own baseball journey, consider the value of exploring unconventional methods. Whether you’re a player looking to expand your skills or a fan eager to learn more about the game, underhand pitching represents a fascinating aspect of baseball that deserves recognition and respect.
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FAQ
Can you pitch underhand in baseball?
Yes, there are no rules prohibiting underhand pitching in baseball. While it is not common, several successful pitchers have used this technique throughout history.
What are the advantages of underhand pitching?
Underhand pitching can offer advantages such as deception, a lower risk of injury, and unique ball movement that can be difficult for batters to track.
Who are some notable submarine pitchers?
Notable submarine pitchers include Carl Mays, Chad Bradford, and Darren O'Day, all of whom have made significant contributions to the game while using this unconventional delivery style.
Is underhand pitching safer than overhand pitching?
Some studies suggest that underhand pitching may reduce the risk of arm injuries due to the more natural motion involved. However, it’s essential to maintain proper mechanics regardless of the style.
Can you throw different types of pitches underhand?
While it is possible to throw various pitches underhand, the range of effective pitches may be more limited compared to traditional overhand deliveries. However, submarine pitchers can still develop effective fastballs, sliders, and change-ups.
