Kurt Heyer
RHP AAA Cardinals
1. Could you tell us your story on dropping down?
I have always had a unusual arm action. Growing up hitters would always tell me that the ball would look like it was coming from my armpit and it was tough to pick up. As I grew up I took bits and pieces from my coaches and molded it into my own mechanics.
2. What are some of the advantages you have from your arm angle?
The advantages are that it's hard to see. Especially if it's a quick arm action. If you can create less of a window for the hitter to see then that helps a lot.
3. If you didn't drop down, do you think you would have had the same success?
I have never change my arm slot. I have always had success with the way I have pitched. Have I tweaked my mechanics a little over the years, yes. But never when it came to my arm slot.
4. What would you tell someone debating on changing their arm angle?
I wouldn't want to change a pitchers mechanics if it wasn't going to help lead them to success. I might give some feedback once in a while, but that's only if I see something that could lead to a possible injury.
5. Are there any mechanical tips that you'd give to someone throwing sidearm/submarine?
My advice is to keep your arm healthy. Watch it carefully. You only have so many bullets. Mechanically I would tell pitchers to not get lazy with the front side as it could tend to fly open.
6. What pitches do you throw?
I throw a fastball, slider, cutter and a changeup. As for velocity my fastball can get up to 95 at times but for the most part it's 90-92.
7. How do you pitch to lefties/righties?
I pitch pretty much the same to both sides as I am confident in all my pitches and I just love to attack both sides of the plate.
8. Lastly what is your favorite part about pitching from down there?
I Iove that my arm action can make the hitter uncomfortable and that I like anything that might help give me a edge.