R.J. Swindle: Former Milwaukee Brewers/Philadelphia Phillies LHP, Team Canada Olympics/WBC

 

 

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

I have always been kind of a 3 quarter delivery, in college I tried to keep that up, over the years, I have dropped down more and more. I wouldn't say Ii am exactly sidearm or submarine now, but I get down there pretty good now.

 

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

I have a pretty extreme angle on hitters especially lefties because I stand on the extreme left side of the rubber, the rays staff actually looked it up and told me I delivered the ball more off the mound than any other pitcher in major league baseball last year so I take a little pride in that.

 

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

I would not have the same success if I threw over the top because I only max out at 85 mph, so I would not work as your run of the mill over the top thrower.

 

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

I would say try the over the top first because u get more velo that way, but I have seen alot of pitchers have more success especially later in their careers by dropping down.

 

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

U still have to keep ur hand on top of the ball and finish ur throw from throwing sidearm, because if u don't, ur ball will be flat and u will still get hit.

 

6. What pitches did you throw?

I throw a 2 seam fastball, changeup, slider, cutter, and a slow 52 mph curveball.

 

7. How did you pitch to lefties/righties?

I usually will use my cutters and sliders to lefties and finish them with my curveball, I will try to sneak some outside fastballs as well. i use my backdoor sliders and inside fastballs to righties and mix in some changeups as well.

 

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

I love the angle i get on hitters especially lefties and throwing from the side has allowed me to be successful in this game for quite a while.