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Scap Loading and the Back Side to Pitching

December 31, 2008

Scap Loading is the pinching of the shoulder blades during hip to shoulder separation. It is an important factor to velocity. Notice the picture here of Greg Maddux Scap Loading. The question is, is Scap Loading a reaction to the stride or is it a voluntary action to generate more hip to shoulder separation?

Scap Loading Issues

The problem with coaching Scap Loading is that it can promote the infamous inverted W.  The inverted W is the mechanical flaw linked to many rotator cuff and UCL injuries in professional baseball. This is when the elbows fly above the shoulders during the stride and before the shoulders fire towards the target. Scap Loading can lead to this issue because Scap Loading is the throwing of the elbows behind the back during the stride. Throwing the elbows behind the back or above the shoulders is both considered putting the shoulders and elbows in what the Physical Therapy world calls the “Red Zone.” This is a vulnerable position for the arms to be in during an explosive movement like pitching. Read more

Written by Brent Pourciau · Filed Under Pitching Articles | 3 Comments