Throwing is one of the most critical skills in baseball and softball, especially from a defensive standpoint. A player’s throwing ability directly impacts fielding percentage, errors, and overall defensive success. Let’s break down why throwing matters so much—and why High Level Throwing®️ by Austin Wasserman should be part of every coach’s development system.
Why Throwing Is Crucial for Defensive Performance
1.
Throwing Ends Nearly Every Defensive Play
After a ground ball, bunt, or fly ball, the majority of outs depend on an accurate, timely throw. Even perfect glove work is wasted if the throw is:
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Late
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Off-target
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Weak
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Pulled offline
Every infield and outfield position depends on consistent overhand throwing mechanics to make plays with confidence and accuracy.
2.
Errors Are Mostly Throwing Errors
Defensive errors in baseball and softball are disproportionately caused by poor throws rather than poor fielding. The most common throwing-related errors:
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Overthrows from rushed or off-balance throws
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Underthrows from poor arm action or poor footwork
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Side-spin or “cut” throws from improper wrist position or sequencing
Improving throwing mechanics directly lowers error rates, which means more outs, shorter innings, and fewer runs scored by opponents.
3.
Fielding Percentage Is Tied to Throwing
Even if a fielder gets to the ball quickly, their fielding percentage suffers if:
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The throw pulls the first baseman off the bag
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The catcher receives the ball too late to tag a runner
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The relay or cut-off is inaccurate
A team with great hands but average arms will struggle to convert outs. Conversely, teams that throw well under pressure can elevate their entire defensive game.
Why Coaches Should Use High Level Throwing®️
Austin Wasserman’s High Level Throwing®️ is more than just mechanics—it’s a comprehensive throwing system based on:
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Functional movement patterns
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Progressive drills
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Biomechanical sequencing
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Injury prevention through efficiency
Here’s why coaches at every level should incorporate it:
1.
Corrects Poor Movement Patterns Early
Many young players are taught outdated drills like wrist flicks and static L drills, which:
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Build bad habits (early wrist roll, cutting the ball)
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Don’t translate to game-speed throws
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Often increase elbow and shoulder stress
High Level Throwing®️ promotes dynamic, natural arm paths, allowing athletes to feel and develop the correct sequence organically.
2.
Improves Accuracy and Consistency
By training the body to move through positions instead of holding at positions, players:
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Release the ball with better timing
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Stay on-line toward their target
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Learn to throw from different arm angles under game pressure (off-balance, on the run, etc.)
This directly reduces wild throws and improves confidence on the field.
3.
Develops Athleticism and Arm Strength
High Level Throwing®️ doesn’t isolate the arm—it integrates:
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Lower body drive
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Hip and shoulder rotation
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Trunk positioning
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Arm path and release
That leads to greater velocity and more efficient throws—without increasing injury risk. Athletes become more explosive and adaptable.
4.
Promotes Injury Prevention
Throwing injuries, especially in youth and travel ball, are increasingly common. Wasserman’s approach:
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Emphasizes warm-ups, prep work, and movement quality
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Builds durable mechanics over time
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Avoids drills that isolate or stress the elbow/wrist unnaturally
Less time hurt means more time playing, improving, and competing.
5.
Easy to Integrate Into Practice Plans
Coaches love High Level Throwing®️ because it’s:
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Modular and scalable
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Backed by video breakdowns, online courses, and step-by-step drills
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Proven with athletes from Little League to D1 and pro levels
You can slot in 10–15 minutes per practice to drastically improve team-wide throwing quality.
Final Word: Throwing Wins Games
A great throw turns a single into an out.
A great throw prevents a run from scoring.
A great throw keeps double plays alive.
Defensive performance is built on consistent, accurate throwing. And that starts with the right instruction.
By using High Level Throwing®️, coaches don’t just teach kids how to throw—they teach them to throw well, safely, and with intent. It’s the modern standard for building strong, healthy arms that win games and reduce errors.