The 2023 Major League Baseball (MLB) season has been marred by a disturbing trend: a sharp increase in pitcher injuries, particularly those involving torn elbow ligaments. This development has not only sidelined some of the game's top talents but also raised serious questions about the causes behind this spike and what might be done to mitigate such injuries in the future.
High-Profile Injuries
The list of pitchers affected includes notable names such as Eury Pérez and Shane Bieber, both of whom are out for the remainder of the season due to torn elbow ligaments. They are joined in the sidelines by Jonathan Loáisiga and Spencer Strider, who have undergone season-ending elbow surgeries. Additionally, Framber Valdez was recently scratched from a start because of elbow soreness, further highlighting the prevalence of arm issues plaguing pitchers across the league.
Alarming Statistics
The number of pitchers dealing with injuries is staggering. An astonishing 34.2% of pitchers in MLB games have undergone Tommy John surgery, a procedure that repairs a torn ulnar collateral ligament in the elbow. Moreover, 132 pitchers were placed on the injured list on Opening Day, which accounted for 80% of all such assignments.
Searching for Causes
Many factors are being blamed for the rise in pitcher injuries. Tony Clark, a prominent figure in the league, points to the implementation of the pitch clock as a potential catalyst. The argument is that the pitch clock, by forcing pitchers to deliver the ball more quickly, could be increasing the stress on their arms. However, MLB has countered this claim, citing a study that found no link between the pitch clock and an increased risk of injury.
Another factor to consider is the increase in pitch velocity. Pitchers are throwing harder than ever before, a trend that undeniably puts more strain on their arms. The crackdown on foreign substances, which was implemented to level the playing field but may have inadvertently made gripping — and thus controlling — the baseball more challenging, could also be a contributing factor.
Furthermore, the current pitching strategy, which emphasizes maximum effort from pitchers with each throw, could be leading to more injuries. This approach, paired with early specialization and a focus on velocity from a young age in youth baseball, may be laying the groundwork for injuries long before players reach the MLB.
Union Criticism and the Pitch Clock Debate
The players' union has been critical of the reduction in the pitch clock length, suggesting that this decision, made in spite of "unanimous player opposition and significant concerns regarding health and safety," could be detrimental to player well-being. The quote emphasizes the union's stance that significant rule changes, particularly those made without adequate consultation with players, can have unforeseen negative impacts.
Pitchers Between a Rock and a Hard Place
The dilemma facing pitchers is succinctly captured in the sentiment, "It's a double-edged sword." On one hand, pitchers are expected to utilize their full capabilities, which for many includes the ability to throw at velocities approaching or exceeding 100 mph. On the other hand, there is a growing recognition that something must change to protect the health and careers of these athletes. The challenge lies in finding a balance that allows pitchers to perform at their best without compromising their long-term health.
Conclusion
The 2023 MLB season serves as a stark reminder of the physical demands and risks associated with professional pitching. With a significant portion of the league's pitchers sidelined due to injuries, particularly those affecting the elbow, the need for a comprehensive review of current practices and policies has never been more apparent. As the league and its players grapple with these challenges, finding solutions that prioritize player health without diluting the quality of the game will be paramount. The path forward is uncertain, but the need for change is undeniable.