Shunsuke Watanabe: Former Japanese league RHP-2006, 2009 Japan WBC

 

 

 

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

Started from 14years old due to improve ball location. The other reason was that I had an advantage to do because of my great mobility.

 

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

It is easy to use up/low combination & change of speed so that the ball seems like rise up.

 

 

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

Absolutely NO. I might take over my father's job without changing arm angles.

 

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

Better to ask coaching for great old submarine pitchers first.
It is difficult to find out good models for you because this type of pitchers are few.

 

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

The most important factors are timing of ball release & good balance of body.
Don't pitch only using strength. It's gonna be easy for batters adjust to hit & up your risk of injury.

You should "hold" your wrist when you release the ball . It's gonna make a ball in "rise up orbit" more.

6. What pitches did you throw?

  fourseam(two types):130km-81mph  Sinker:132km- 82mph slider:110km- 68mph Breaking ball:90km-56mph Change up: 115km-71mph

7. How did you pitch to lefties/righties?

 To righties: Fast balls in inside. Slow ball and cut ball in outside. "Rise up" fast ball at high.

To lifties: slider and breaking ball from the ball zone of outside. sinker from the strike to ball zone of outside.
slider and sinker to inside. "Rise up" fast ball at high. Combine these 4 patterns.

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

Give the coaches and fans big impact and specal feeling. These pitchers tend to be outstanding.