Mark Fuller
Former AAA RHP NY Mets
1. Could you tell us your story on dropping down?
My arm slot was lowered my freshman year at Auburn by my head coach. He felt my fastball was flat and I needed to gain some deception.
2. What are some of the advantages you had from your arm angle?
I increased my sink and was able to hide the ball better. My slider improved and change up gained arm side action as well. I was 84-86 mph
3. If you didn't drop down, do you think you would have had the same success?
I think my career at Auburn and my 5 year minor league career were enhanced by the arm slot change for sure. I was successful in high school and was drafted so I dont regret not dropping down earlier. It came at the right time.
4. What would you tell someone debating on changing their arm angle?
I only recommend changing the arm slot to kids now in my facility who lack fastball movement or throw from an awkwardly high slot that causes them to pull away from the catcher. Lack of velocity is not a factor because most of my kids have not reached full development. For older pitchers it is either a lack of movement and velocity, lack of command or an arm injury that I would lower their arm slot.
5. Are there any mechanical tips that you'd give to someone throwing sidearm/submarine?
I simply ask them to show me their idea of "side arm" and I go from there. They all have a different idea what that means but it usually ends with me seeing the release point I am looking for. I will also ask them to picture a clock...noon to 6:00 and try to hit 3:00. ( just to give them a visual)
6. What pitches did you throw?
Sinker/Slider/Changeup
7. How did you pitch to lefties/righties?
I would stay away from lefties and try to get them to roll over sinkers or sink the change up away from them. I would run the fastball in for show and occasionally try to jam them with sliders. To righties I would try to jam them with sinkers or get them to roll over sliders.
8. What was your favorite part about pitching from down there?
Since i was not a strikeout pitcher I really enjoyed seeing how quickly i could get 3 outs with groundballs. My goal was 8 pitches or less.