I am thinking about changing my pitching style from regular overhand to sidearm/submarine. I have a feeling that the reason I did not make the Freshman team this year was because I blended in too much. I just had an "average" fastball and "average" control. When I tryout for JV in February, I really want to stand out. I feel like if I dropped down, the coaches might like me because I offer a different arm angle than most. So should I do this? By the way, I am asking this question now because I want to work on this in a fall league. Also I have heard that dropping down creates less stress on the elbow. I think that is why John Smoltz is changing his arm angle. Oh and I will post a video by tommorow of my proposed new pitching motion. Thanks!

Sorry, I meant less stress on the shoulder not the elbow.

its not a bad plan considering most teams like to haev a reliever that shows a different arm angle. id only do it if you really thought you had no shot over the top. theres definitely a future in high school and college for decent sidearm/ submarine pitches

yea thats what I was thinking.

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Instead of messing around with gimmicks go talk to your coach and ask him what it will take for you to make the team next year. Work hard on what he tells you, and prepare well in advance for the try-outs. There are only so many pitchers on a team and the reality is that the number 1 & 2 (maybe 3) will get 90% of the innings. Kids change a lot at this time of your life, so get stronger faster and build up your arm strength. Hit a lot. If you can hit they will a place for you. Find out the make up of the team and work on the positions that they are weak in. It’s going to take a lot of work on your part, and you will have a better chance if you discuss it with the coach. Good Luck!

Reguarding the dropping down situation.. I would only recommend this if this feels natural for your arm. Most sidearm/submarine pitchers feel natural throwing that way. As a sidearm pitcher myself I feel alot better throwing that way from the mound, but a kid whos got a natural 3/4 armslot shouldn't be dropping down just to try it. This is where sidearm injuries occur, usually by those who try to do something unnatural to them. I'm not saying don't throw that way go ahead and see if it feels good. I threw 3/4 my entire life until my freshman year of high school when I realized my natural armslot was sidearm and now I pitch in college. In short, try it out if it feels awkward or unnatural I'd suggest dropping the idea because of the risk of injury. Also, if you do feel as if this is the right "slot" for you its very important to work on mechanics with it. A sidearmer needs to have his mechanics in-sync to become successful.