November 05, 2008
Process of Elimination
I love this idea. Want to find a pitcher? Go to a high popluation country, and offer a prize to someone who can throw hard and accurately:
Singh came to the United States with Patel after being declared winner of the Million Dollar Arm contest in India, run by promoter Jeff Bernstein, Barry Bonds' marketing agent. The contest -- the second edition is scheduled to begin this month and targets India because of its population of 1.1 billion even though the country has never produced a major leaguer -- was based on those who could throw the most pitches 85 mph or faster for strikes. Singh consistently hit 87 mph and earned $100,000. When veteran major league scout Ray Poitevint went to India to see whether he had potential, he also recommended Patel, who threw harder but wasn't as accurate.
If they really wanted to do this right, they should have this contest in every neighborhood, then keep moving the winner up against less and less regional competition. At the end, they'll wind up with 10 good arms that might be developed into major league pitchers.
Hat tip, AOL FanHouse.
Posted by David Pinto at
12:15 PM
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Trouble is, the hurlers from India will run in from center field, keep their arms straight (at least enough not to upset the ICC), and be careful not to overstep the rubber.
And the ball's always going to be in the dirt!
You'll also end up with youngsters who remain wedded to throwing hard as possible and who will throw their arms out by age 20.
I know scouts look for smoke, but this is not a good way to find future major league pitchers. I would instead look for actual pitching skill. Speed will come with age and with work on mechanics. Most pitchers don't hit their maximum velocity until their late 20's.
