152 pitches

[Strike For The South]

The number, of itself, would be less worrisome if it didn't also come with too much pressure to throw curves, sliders and even screwjies at that age. Moreover, in the golden age of the game, you were expected to throw at about 80-85% unless facing their best hitters so that you could preserve arm strength. That is another trend that is headed the wrong way IMHO.

Yup. The pressure on these kids to expand their repertoire is insane. It used to be a guy could go into the minors with 2 pitches (and that second pitch was probably shaky) Now the only way that happens is if you throw 98 MPH and you are already pigeonholed as a relief guy.

I honestly think Tommy John was the worst thing to happen to the game. Well that, and the pressure on these kids to produce in these ridiculous select leagues. Basically you can only break into baseball now if you're an upper middle class white guy or a subsidized Dominican. Couple the heavy financial investment with baseball Dads and I pity these umps.

A perfect example of it was this game, they clearly went over the pitch count and everyone stayed mum