Ben Rowen: Former RHP Brewers, Rangers - Current AAA Braves

 

 

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

I started lowering my arm angle for pitching about 10 years ago in early high school under the care of my coach Evan Fujinaga at Palos Verdes High. During high school I was a standard side-arm pitcher and at the end of my senior year of high school I lowered my arm angle as far as it could go into being a full submarine pitcher. My coach saw something in my mechanics, delivery, and body type that reminded him of a college teammate who threw submarine, and he worked with me to make the conversion work out.

 

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

There are many different advantages being a submarine pitcher as opposed to a conventional over-hand thrower. The most glaring advantage being that it is a very unique style that hitters rarely see and in turn are not comfortable hitting against. When the hitter is not comfortable in the batters box, the pitcher already has the advantage.

 

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

I would like to think that if I had not dropped down I would have found a way to get outs, but I definitely believe this has been the best route for me to take.

 

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

I would tell someone debating on changing their arm angle that it is not an easy task. It is something that takes a lot of hard work to get comfortable with, and it is not a free ticket into making life easier on the mound. It comes with its own road blocks and challenges, but if it becomes successful it's a very rewarding experience.

 

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

A big thought mechanically that I have found is that all of the basic principles of throwing overhand still apply to a submarine pitcher. And being able to repeat your mechanics from pitch to pitch is just as important.

 

6. What pitches do you throw?

I throw a sinking fastball, slider and change up.

 

7. How do you pitch to lefties/righties?

Generally, my pitching mentality with a righty at the plate is the same against a lefty. I try to be on the attack with my fastball, forcing contact and inducing ground balls, and I use my off speed to keep hitters off balance.

 

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

My favorite part about being a submarine pitcher is knowing that I can frustrate hitters while not lighting up the radar gun. It's not a flashy style, but I work hard to get the job done quickly and quietly.