April 21, 2025, 8:55 a.m.
Is your baseball player throwing too many pitches? St. Louis Children’s Hospital physical therapist David Piskulic provides throw count recommendations for young athletes.
- When an athlete is younger than 12, maximum pitch counts range from 50 to 85 throws per game. Pitchers 12 and under should have two days of rest after throwing 50 pitches.
- From ages 13-18, pitchers can throw up to 60 pitches on two days of rest.
- Avoid playing positions with a high throw frequency, such as catcher, third base, or outfield, after pitching.
When your child has a sprain, strain, jam, or minor fracture, visit one of two Orthopedic Injury Clinic locations for a same-day appointment. You’ll receive immediate care from orthopedic specialists, including on-site X-ray, splinting, and casting. We treat kids ages 5 and up.
