Bobby Shantz: Former LHP several teams, AL MVP 1952

 

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

The only time I dropped down to throw sidearm was when I was facing a left-handed hitter. I never threw sidearm to a right-handed hitter. 

 

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

It was just another look that I had to help get tough left-handed hitters out. 

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

It was something that helped me vs left handed hitters but overall had success too vs righties. 

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

I don't think I would ever tell a pitcher to change their arm angle, think it is something they need to figure out themselves. 

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

 N/A

 

6. What pitches did you throw?

I threw a fastball, curve ball, and knuckleball. 

7. How did you pitch to lefties/righties?

I would change speeds with my fastball and curveball. I didn't really have control of the knuckler so I only threw that pitch when I had two strikes on the hitter. I really got a lot of hitters out on the knuckler though. I would only throw sidearm to left handed hitters since righties would get a good view of it. The best advice to any pitcher is to throw strikes and change speeds because all the good hitters love the fastball!