Sparing young arms
Concerned about arm injuries from overuse, the Minnesota State High School League is looking at implementing a pitch count beginning in the 2017 baseball season. The recommendations for maximum number of pitches and ensuing rest days.
Seniors and juniors
• 105 pitches, three days of rest.
• 75 pitches, two days of rest.
• 30 pitches, can pitch back-to-back days but must rest the third day.
Sophomores and younger
• 85 pitches, three days of rest.
Note: Pitchers will be allowed to finish the batter they are facing when they reach the maximum number of pitches.
Pitches for and against: Red Lake County coach Chris Nelson and New Life Academy coach Dave Darr guided their teams to the Class 1A state tournament a year ago. Nelson had three different players throw complete games (95 to 123 pitches); Darr used four different players in their three games (throwing 12 to 84 pitches).
