By Anonymous on Friday, October 26, 2001 - 08:39 am: Edit

Would a side-armed throw in softball be more beneficial and time saving than an overhand throw for an infielder?

By Kristen Sickle on Tuesday, March 19, 2002 - 07:05 am: Edit

My name is Kristen Sickle and I am a physical education student at Kent State University. I also coach softball at Copley High School. To answer your question, no. A side-armed throw in softball, or any sport for that matter, would end up in injury to the elbow. The only time side-arm might be used in a softball or baseball situation is when the shortstop or second baseperson is turning a quick double play. The overhand throw would be an easier and more accurate throw for the infielder to make.

By Darrin OBruba on Tuesday, March 19, 2002 - 07:17 am: Edit

Hi, my name is Darrin O'Bruba and I am a physical education student at Kent State University. To answer your question about whether a side-armed throw in softball would be more effective or less effective all depends on the situation. For instance, it is less likely for a third baseperson to use a side-armed throw because the lack of velocity. For the most part, players should not get into the habit of throwing side-arm. It has been proven that if a person does not know how to throw side-arm correctly, it can damage that person's arm. Since this time my arm constantly hurts when I throw any kind of ball for a long period of time. However, it is very common for shortstops and second baseperson to use the side-armed throw when completing a double play. You may be asking why? This is because a side-armed throw can be thrown much quicker in time. It takes less time for a person to make a side-armed throw, rather than a regular throw. During a double play, both the second baseperson and the shortstop have a limited amount of time to get the ball to the first baseman to complete the out. In conclusion, I feel that a side-armed throw can become a bad habit by young children who play baseball or softball. But, there are times in which a side-armed throw can prove to be a valuable asset.