infield throwing

Question
I was wondering if you had any suggestions on throwing. I play infield (SS,3B,2B).  People have to told me that off a ground ball you shouldn't bring the ball back and throw over but bring it straight to your ear so the throw gets off quicker? I'm not sure which works best.

Thanks in advance,
Alex

Answer
Alex,

I prefer to throw with proper mechanics.  There are times that as an infielder you have to get rid of the ball quickly, but most of the time you just want to make a good accurate throw. Nothing replaces proper throwing mechanics. An infielder has to know the runner and how fast he is.  A fast runner on a slow roller you get rid of quickly.  A hard hit grounder that gets to you quick, you make a good strong throw.  A SS and 3B needs a bigger arm.  A 2B a lesser arm.

Work on your mechanics and throw with a strong arm, then make adjustments to the type of throw that is needed.

Coach