PREVENT OVERUSE BASEBALL INJURIES
Tips
- It is important to warm up before any sport practice or game. Utilize a basic warm up plan to increase circulation in all joints muscles before pitching or batting.
- The warm up period should be dynamic which includes activities that put the joints through full range of motion, increase heart rate and involve multiple joints in a functional activity.
- During the game or practice prevent playing only one position.
- Follow age appropriate pitching guidelines.
- Pitching simultaneously in different teams may lead to over use.
- Pitch in alternate days.
- Report any pain in elbow or shoulder.
- If pain prevents you from playing you should seek medical assistance.
- Avoid pitching all seasons.
- Adhere to age appropriate skills.
- Follow guidelines set by your injury prevention team.
- Breaking pitches shouldn’t be tried before mastering fastballs and change-ups.
- Consult with the school’s physical therapist, injury prevention team or pediatrician for concerns about injury
Pitching Guidelines
Ages 7-16 | Ages 17-18 | Required # of |
61+ | 76+ | 3 calendar days |
41-60 | 51-75 | 2 calendar days |
21-40 | 26-50 | 1 calendar day |
1-20 | 1-25 | None |
* Rest Periods Required
Maximum Pitch Counts
Age | Pitches/Game |
7-8 | 50 |
9-10 | 75 |
11-12 | 85 |
13-16 | 95 |
17-18 | 105 |
Age Recommended for Various Pitches
Pitch | Age |
Fastball | 8±2 |
Slider | 16±2 |
Change-up | 10±3 |
Forkball | 16±2 |
Curveball | 14±2 |
Knuckleball | 15±3 |
Screwball | 17±2 |



