Pitching is tough on the body, and deciding when to push through soreness or take an extra day off can be tricky. Should you stick to the rotation, or will an extra rest day help you in the long run? A recent study gives us some answers, shedding light on how rest can reduce injury risks for pitchers—and why taking that extra day might be worth it. Pitcher injury prevention is a top priority for longevity on the mound.
The Dilemma: Pitch or Rest?
Midseason, when pitchers feel arm soreness or fatigue, coaches and athletes often have to decide—should they take the mound as scheduled or sit out? In competitive settings, skipping a game isn’t always an option. But when the rotation allows it, adding an extra rest day could be the smarter move.
What the Study Found
Data from Major League Baseball (MLB) pitchers between 2022 and 2023 shows a clear trend: pitchers who got more than five days of rest between starts spent significantly less time on the injured list (IL) for muscle and joint (musculoskeletal) injuries.
Here’s what the numbers show:
- Pitchers with fewer than 5 rest days (Group A) spent 13.6 days on the IL per 1,000 pitches.
- Pitchers with more than 5 rest days (Group B) only spent 10.7 days on the IL per 1,000 pitches—a 22% lower injury rate.
Surprisingly, both groups had similar pitch counts per game, with Group B even averaging about one more pitch per start. That means taking an extra rest day didn’t reduce playing time or performance—it only reduced injuries.
What This Means for You
If you’re experiencing soreness or recovering from an injury, the numbers are clear: take the extra day off if you can. Giving your body time to recover reduces your chances of getting hurt, keeping you in the game longer and off the sidelines.
Train Smart, Pitch Smart
Pitching without enough recovery time can lead to avoidable injuries. If you’re debating whether to postpone a start or stick to your rotation, remember that rest can be your best friend. The data shows that an extra day off doesn’t hurt your performance—it protects it.
So, the next time you feel fatigued or sore, know that opting for an extra rest day could be the smartest move you make. More recovery time now means more time on the mound later. Train smart, pitch smart, and keep doing what you love—without the setbacks.
Protect Your Pitching Future – Start Your Recovery Journey with Petroski Physio Today!
Pitching can take a toll on the body, and pushing through soreness can lead to long-term setbacks. The data is clear—an extra day of rest may be the best way to support injury prevention and longevity on the mound. At Petroski Physio, we understand the importance of balancing performance with recovery, offering targeted training and rehabilitation to keep pitchers performing at their peak.
Don’t let fatigue or injury keep you off the mound. Contact Petroski Physio today to learn how our personalized injury prevention and recovery programs can help you stay strong and pain-free all season long.