DELIVERIES TO HOME PLATE AND FIRST BASE MADE BY LEFT-HANDED BASEBALL PITCHERS

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze differences between the delivery to home plate and first base of left-handed baseball pitchers and, subsequently, quantify the pick-off move. Seven healthy participants were used in the study, and all were current or former collegiate pitchers. Deliveries to both targets were captured in three dimensions, and selected kinematics were used for comparison. Results showed that of the selected kinematics, only upper torso rotation (UTR) displayed both statistically significant differences as well as differences that could be detected in game situations. Other measurements showed differences in their means, but were not disparate enough to be considered reliable for use in game strategy. High-level left-handed pitchers maximize their natural advantage.