sidearm/infield throwing technique

Question
Hi, I'm 14, and I was wondering what the proper mechanics are to throwing sidearm for a infield (especially 3B/SS). I have some ok success practicing this technique, but sometimes I can't control the spin on the ball and it sometimes will go away. Thanks

Answer
I would only recommend throwing straight past your ear and/or over-the-top.  I know that the pros and older high schoolers throw sidearm, and many of them are very accurate, but it is not a sound technique.  In other words, it's not the way to learn.  If you think of up and down, and left to right, as on a clock, you are going to be the most accurate if you throw the ball past the 12 and release it, and follow through down to the six at the bottom.  If you let your arm swing wide to three o'clock, it is going to sail sometimes.

I feel that the only real reason to throw sidearm is if you are a middle infielder, and it helps you throw across second base and over to first faster (still, it is not as accurate as overhand.)

If you throw sidearm naturally, I wouldn't want you to really change the way your arm does things naturally.

Here are a few other things to remember when you throw (besides the angle of your arm.)  Remember that your throws--any throws--start from your base: your feet.  Don't forget to point your left toe where you are throwing, and don't forget about staying loose and letting your arm whip a little--it's not all muscle and strength...a lot of throwing is about how graceful the whole process is...it starts in your step.

Good luck with your throws.  Consider over the top, but stick to sidearm if that is more comfortable for you.  Always follow through...and don't squeeze the ball--let your fingers be like the tip of a whip...the part tthat CRACKS at the speed of sound, literally.  Please read some of my other posts on throwing.  Maybe they can help you further.

Feel free to write again anytime.  Hope this helps.