Is Year-Round Baseball Putting Young Players at Risk?
Year-round baseball has become the norm, with many young athletes playing without an offseason. But is this non-stop schedule leading to more injuries? Dr. Jason Zaremski explains why continuous throwing without structured rest increases wear and tear on young arms, the long-term risks of early specialization, and how parents and coaches can create a smarter approach to player development.
INJURY PREVENTION & PERFORMANCE BUILDING STRONGER ATHLETES
Coach Leo Young
3/8/20252 min read
Is Year-Round Baseball Putting Young Players at Risk?
Baseball has evolved into a year-round sport, with players competing in travel ball, showcases, and indoor training facilities without a true offseason. While more opportunities to play can seem beneficial, Dr. Jason Zaremski warns that the lack of rest may be doing more harm than good.
Watch the full discussion with Dr. Jason Zaremski:
The Risks of Playing Baseball Year-Round
Many young athletes today never take a break from throwing, which can lead to serious long-term issues:
Cumulative wear and tear – Continuous throwing without recovery increases the risk of overuse injuries.
Early specialization concerns – Playing only baseball from a young age can limit overall athletic development.
Higher stress on the arm – Players are getting bigger, stronger, and throwing harder without allowing their bodies to adapt.
More injuries at younger ages – Dr. Zaremski highlights that elbow and shoulder injuries are appearing earlier than in past decades.
While increased training opportunities can be beneficial, young players must balance workload and recovery to avoid long-term damage.
How to Keep Young Athletes Healthy While Playing Year-Round
To reduce injury risks and promote long-term success, parents and coaches should focus on:
Scheduled time off – Implement defined rest periods from throwing, even if players are training year-round.
Encouraging multi-sport participation – Playing different sports helps improve overall athleticism and reduces burnout.
Tracking workload – Monitor pitch counts, innings, and recovery time to prevent excessive stress.
Prioritizing strength and mobility training – A well-rounded training program can help players stay durable.
Learn More About Sore to Soaring
At Sore to Soaring, we provide young athletes with the tools, knowledge, and mentorship they need to develop safely and perform at a high level.
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What Do You Think?
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Disclaimer:
The views shared are those of the guest and do not represent an endorsement by Lupos Initiative Inc., DBA Sore to Soaring. This content is for informational purposes only and not medical or training advice. Always consult a qualified professional before starting any exercise or throwing program. No affiliation or compensation exists between Sore to Soaring and any for-profit entity mentioned.
If you wish to learn more about Dr. Zaremski’s work, visit:UFHealth.org.
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