A Unique Approach To Throwing Heat

Craig Kimbrel's Unusual Pitching Stance

A Unique Approach to Throwing Heat

Craig Kimbrel, the flame-throwing closer for the Atlanta Braves, stands out on the mound for more than just his blistering fastball. His distinctive pitching stance, with his hands on his hips, right foot front, and left foot back, is a sight to behold.

Origins of the Stance

Kimbrel's unconventional stance was born out of necessity. As a young pitcher, he developed bicep tendinitis that made it painful to release the ball using a traditional delivery. To alleviate the pain, he experimented with different arm positions and stumbled upon his current stance.

Success with the Unusual

Despite its unusual appearance, Kimbrel's stance has proven to be incredibly effective. He quickly rose through the minor leagues, racking up strikeouts and earning a spot in the Braves' bullpen in 2010. Since then, he has become one of the most dominant closers in Major League Baseball, with 334 career saves and a 1.91 earned run average.

The Trademark and Legacy

Kimbrel's raised-arm stance has become his signature move, as recognizable as his cropped hair and trademark hanging curveball. It serves as a reminder of his journey from injury-prone prospect to one of the most feared pitchers in the game.

Conclusion

Craig Kimbrel's pitching stance is a testament to his resilience and creativity. By embracing a unique approach born out of adversity, he has become one of the most dominant relievers in baseball history, proving that even the most unusual methods can lead to extraordinary success.