Andy Wise
Former RHP Chicago Cubs
1. Could you tell us your story on dropping down?
I was kind of just another guy on the pitching staff at Santa Ana College(JC) when I starting toying around with the lower arm slot. 84-88mph over the top with average secondary stuff wont get you anywhere out here in SoCal
2. What are some of the advantages you had from your arm angle?
There were definately advantages to throwing down there. It is a different look for the hitters, not something easily recreated to work on seeing consistantly. It created more ground balls, giving me a chance to get on the field and help my team. It is also an easy way to hide the ball from hitters(deception)
3. If you didn't drop down, do you think you would have had the same success?
I do not think I would have gotten the opportunity to have the success I did if I didnt drop down. Nor would I have deserved it. I truly would have been just another guy without making a major change in some way shape or form
4. What would you tell someone debating on changing their arm angle?
If you love to play the game and where you are at at the moment isnt getting you to the place you want, Take a chance, make an adjustment. Thats a huge part of our game in many ways(making an adjustment), so looking long term changing your arm slot might just give you the opportunity to prolong your time on the diamond. I know it did for me, for sure
5. Are there any mechanical tips that you'd give to someone throwing sidearm/submarine?
Sidearmers should do what works for them(no cookie cutter). We are so unconventional that I dont think there is an exact method. be creative, be original, GET OUTS!!! Thats the bottom line
6. What pitches did you throw?
I was a sinker/slider guy whos best pitch was a palm ball(acted like a screwball/20mph slower than FB). My splits were all 10mph apart. FB(81-85) SL(71-75) CH(61-65). And I dont miss.
7. How did you pitch to lefties/righties?
RHH got mostly FBs and SLs. LHH got mostly FBs and CHs. In and out. Everything DOWN DOWN DOWN!!!
8. Lastly what was your favorite part about pitching from down there?
My favorite thing about throwing down there was getting to compete and kick ass on the field with my teammates. Like I said it extended my career and gave me the opportunity to do a lot of cool stuff, meet great people, travel to amazing spots, and learn a ton about this great game and all the things that come along with it. Thank you Geoff and sidearmnation.com for giving a home to us funky, out getting machines.