Kyle Chavez
RHP AAA - Mexico
1. Could you tell us your story on dropping down?
I always had accuracy and a pretty good arm playing shortstop my whole childhood and my ball naturally had 2 seam action. I made the transition my junior year of high school.
2. What are some of the advantages you have from your arm angle?
Throwing this way definitely gives me a perception advantage. It’s typically a lot harder for the hitter to barrel the ball up which has lead to a lot of weak contact. It’s a lot easier to induce more movement.
3. If you didn't drop down, do you think you would have had the same success?
If you didn't drop down, do you think you would have had the same success? Absolutely not. I definitely wouldn’t still be playing this game today, at least not at this level anyways. Do you wish you would have dropped down earlier in your career? No I think the timing couldn’t have came any better. I finally grew into my body and I had just started to swing wood bats and I had a metal bat swing.
4. What would you tell someone debating on changing their arm angle?
If your not sitting 90 consistently it’s definitely something to consider. Or drop a slot if your pitches flatten out.
5. Are there any mechanical tips that you'd give to someone throwing sidearm/submarine?
Stay whippy and explosive. I try to involve a lot of core to create more torque. You can always benefit from creating a lot of separation.
6. What pitches do you throw?
Sinker 86-88
Slider 72-75
Change up- 73-76
7. How do you pitch to lefties/righties?
Nothing to much I’m still trying to works both sides at the knees but a few more change ups to lefties and more sliders to righties.
8. What is your favorite part about pitching from down there?
Besides being unconventional and different I really enjoy all the soft contact.