Maurice Wilhelm: RHP German National team- 2016 WBC

 

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

   The main reason I dropped down full time was that it felt more comfortable then over the top. Growing up I was always told to throw over the top and as I got older I would drop down occasionally to give the hitter a different angle. I would say I was 15 or 16 when I went to a 3/4 and sometime lower arm angle.

 

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

 The main advantage I have is that hittters especially in my league see fewer 3/4 arm slot guys then over the top pitchers.  Most pitchers get more movement on their pitches from a lower angle and this is the case for me as well.

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

 I think I could of still had success because I throw alot of strikes but at the same time I would of had less movement which could of hurt my pitching. Overall its hard to say if I would of had the same success or not. I dropped my arm slot at a decently young age so I dont think it hurt my High School and College career.

 

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

When it comes to changing arm slot I would just say that you need to throw from wherever is comfortable. Throwing should come naturally and you shouldnt force a certain arm slot

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

My biggest tip is to make sure you go straight to your target. My biggest thing is I tell myself to try and put my face in the catchers glove. I feel that helps me with my command. Also, never be afraid to pitch in! pitching in from a lower arm slot is key. I have met people that are afraid to throw in because they are afraid to hit the batter because of arm side run. You have to throw in, you cant let the hitter get cofortable.

6. What pitches do you throw?

Now that im in the bullpen almost full time I throw fastball and slider. I have a change up as well but I usually stick to fastball slider. I havent been clocked much but at the WBC qualifier in Mexico I was clocked at 88.

7. How do you pitch to lefties/righties?

 I pitch both pretty similar.  I try to get strike one right away with whatever my first pitch is (depends on where in the lineup they are) .I feel that getting ahead of the hitter is key for success. For righties I try to get groundballs so I would say busting them in.

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

   My favortie part about throwing from a 3/4 slot is that its different and its not an easy skill to have.