Dusty Hughes: Former LHP Twins/Royals

 

1. Could you tell us your story on dropping down?

 I started dropping down in 2008 in AAA with the Royals.  Tom Burgemier taught me to do that occasionally to keep the lefties off balance.  In 2012 at the end of the season I started dropping down permanently because it was going to give me chance ot get back to the big leagues.

 

2. What are some of the advantages you have from your arm angle?

Some of the advantages I had from the arm angle was getting more ground balls because of the type of movement and tougher on lefties.

3. If you didn't drop down, do you think you would have had the same success?

I truly wish I would have never done that permanently becuase i feel like the braves ruined my career because of it.  Looking back I would have never done it.

4. What would you tell someone debating on changing their arm angle?

 I would maybe move some over a little bit to the side but not all the way cause that only means they cant get people out up top anymore and just looking for a way out is all.  I would still be playing if i never changed.

5. Are there any mechanical tips that you'd give to someone throwing sidearm/submarine?

The biggest thing to throw from down there is direction.  you have to balance your body out and then go to the plate not around it.  If you go around it the velo goes down instantly and command is not good.

6. What pitches do you throw?

The Pitches I threw were fastball slider and changeup

7. How do you pitch to lefties/righties?

I pitched righties and lefties for the most part the same.  I was one of a few guys that would throw lefty lefty changeups.  My out pitch was my changeup but my slider was really good from that angle when i controlled it. 

8. Lastly what is your favorite part about pitching from down there?

I enjoyed throwing from down there occasionally but not permanently.  I did enjoy striking out lefties with my slider from there.  I still pitch my high school kids from down there occasionally but I throw back up top.