Major League Baseball has taken an important first step regarding the pitcher injuries crisis, but the problem also extends to the youth, high school and college levels.
The article from Forbes, published on February 3, 2025, discusses the widespread issue of pitcher injuries in baseball, extending beyond Major League Baseball (MLB) to affect all levels of the sport. It highlights how the increasing rate of injuries, particularly to the elbow and shoulder, is not only a concern for professional players but also for college, high school, and even youth pitchers. The piece points out that factors such as overuse, improper mechanics, and the pressure to throw harder and faster at younger ages contribute to this crisis. It also mentions the economic impact on teams due to high-profile injuries, the potential long-term health consequences for athletes, and the ongoing debate about how to mitigate these risks through changes in training, pitch counts, and possibly even the structure of the game itself. The article calls for a collaborative effort from coaches, trainers, medical professionals, and league officials to address this growing problem to ensure the health and longevity of pitchers at every level.