Jim Ed Warden: Former AAA RHP several teams, All-time saves leader Atlantic League

 

 

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

I was in my third year of high-a ball in 2005 and was having a rough time. John Farell, the current manager of the blue jays, called me into the office and suggested the change. I was actually thrilled because I threw that way when I was younger and was excited to get a second chance basically. It turned my entire career around.

 

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

One advantage for me was that I did not lose velocity when I dropped down. I gained sink and kept velocity. Not to mention the confidence gained from just being able to throw strikes.

 

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

No doubt in my mind that I would not have gotten the shots at the big leagues that I had nor the opportunity to continue to play into my early thirties like I have without dropping down.

 

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

It has to be the right person... some guys just cant do it. I think you can see it from the first throw whether or not they can make the switch. For me it has to be any easy switch.

 

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

For me it is all about being as simple as possible.... I step and I throw... no leg kick at all... step... throw.... one of my keys is to relax and concentrate on my effort being very low until it almost release point and then letting everything go.

 

6. What pitches did you throw?

I throw a 4 seam, 2 seam, slider and a change up that is kind of a screwball.

 

7. How did you pitch to lefties/righties?

I mainly stay on one side of the plate...My opposite arm side...away to righties into lefties... sliders to righties for strikeouts changeups to lefties for strikeouts... I throw changeups to both early or late in the count... 2 seamers for ground balls.

 

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

Been the intimidation factor...1 nobody likes facing weird arm angle guys. 2 At 6'7" I pretty much throw from behind righties. 3 I throw a little harder than most sidearmers. and 4 shattering bats... it is all good!