Ehren Wassermann: Former RHP Chicago White Sox

 

 

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

The first time I dropped down was in a summer game after my sophomore year. I was having a tough time with my curveball and thought a drop down slider might help. I had some success and carried it over to my junior year of college just to add another dimension to my game. I dropped down a little more my senior year but didn't start full time until my first season of pro ball when I was 22.

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

Some advantages are that not many people throw sidearm so its a different look that hitters aren't used to seeing. Also it is a very tough angle for right handed hitters. The angle can also add more movement and create more deception. Another advantage is that it can lengthen the career of a high school or college pitcher. If you can keep the same velocity when dropping down 85 becomes a lot more effective.

 

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

I had a lot of success my sophomore year staying up top but I think dropping down took me to a higher level.

 

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

For me its almost a last resort. Pitching is so velocity driven and its harder to throw with the same velocity side arm as over the top. If dropping down can lengthen your pitching career then I say go for it.

 

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

Sidearm mechanics vary from pitcher to pitcher. I've talked to many and each have a different set of keys that they need to happen for them to be successful. For me direction is a big key. If my first move is not towards home then it is harder for me to throw strikes and my ball straightens out.

 

6. What pitches did you throw?

I throw a fastball, slider, curveball (higher arm angle), and a changeup.

 

7. How did you pitch to lefties/righties?

Righties- I work in and out with a fastball, sliders ahead and behind in the count, and usually a bp fastball to change speeds. Lefties- I usually go with a higher arm angle and stay with fastballs and changeups away early in the count. Late in the count fastballs and curveballs in.

 

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

My favorite part is that its not the norm. Its something unusual that offers players another way to have success in the game without having to throw 95.