A concerning trend is emerging on the diamond: shoulder and elbow injuries among young baseball players are climbing, driven by relentless schedules, subpar mechanics and inadequate recovery.
Why Overuse Is a Growing Concern
Dr. Sean Hogan of St. Joseph Health explains that the repetitive throwing motion places extraordinary stress on a still‑developing arm, making growth plates especially vulnerable.
He points to three primary culprits — overuse, poor technique and insufficient rest — and stresses that each can be mitigated with disciplined practice and proper monitoring.
Central to his advice are pitch‑count limits and mandated rest periods. Major League Baseball’s Pitch Smart initiative offers concrete guidance on how many days of recovery a pitcher should observe between appearances, helping to preserve arm health over the long term.
Beyond numbers, Dr. Hogan urges players, coaches and parents to listen to early warning signs, such as persistent soreness or reduced velocity, and to prioritize safety over short‑term performance.