Coach Beede

One of the most concerning trends in youth and high school baseball is the growing number of pitchers undergoing Tommy John surgery at such young ages. At the same time, too many velocity-based instructors continue to prioritize radar-gun readings over the long-term development of the athlete.

This is where parents need to be very careful.

Between the ages of 15 and 19, young athletes are still developing physically, mentally, and emotionally. Natural strength gains, proper nutrition, recovery, sleep, movement quality, and overall maturity all play a major role in arm health and performance. A young pitcher should not be pushed like a fully mature athlete before his body is ready to handle that level of stress.

Velocity has become a selling point in today’s game, but development must come before destruction.

Parents need to ask better questions:
Is my son getting stronger the right way?
Is he recovering properly?
Is he eating well enough to support growth and performance?
Is he being developed with patience and perspective, or simply pushed for short-term results?

Protect the arm. Build the body. Respect the process.

The goal should not be early hype.
The goal should be long-term health, confidence, and sustainable development.