Kinematic predictors of ball velocity and elbow varus moment in collegiate baseball pitchers

The aim of this study was to identify the kinematic factors during a fastball pitch that are associated with ball velocity (BV) and peak elbow varus moments (PVar) in collegiate baseball pitchers. Fifteen collegiate baseball pitchers underwent 3D motion analysis testing. Correlation and multivariate regression analyses were conducted to examine an independent relationship between BV, PVar and 29 potential kinematic predictors. It was concluded that stride leg (SL) lower extremity and throw arm glenohumeral (GH) kinematics at stride foot contact (SFC) are influential on PVar and BV generation. The results suggest that modified pitching mechanics may increase pitch efficiency by simultaneously minimizing PVar and maximizing BV.