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In this episode of The Gap #122, we sit down with Luke Dawson, better known as Throw Ched, to break down why today’s pitchers MUST become more athletic if they want to survive in the modern game. Velocity is skyrocketing, workloads are heavier, and injuries are at an all-time high — which means the old model of “just throw more bullpens” is officially dead.

Luke explains why rotational athletes need to train like sprinters, jumpers, and throwers, not bodybuilders or distance runners. We cover the movement qualities that actually translate to velocity: dynamic hip rotation, elastic power, javelin-inspired sequencing, and the ability to create force fast. If you’re a pitcher trying to increase velocity, reduce arm stress, and build a body that can handle a full season, this conversation gives you the blueprint.

We also discuss why siloed “pitching-only” development is holding athletes back, how poor athleticism limits mechanics, and what baseball can learn from javelin, track and field, and power-speed sports. Luke breaks down how he trains his athletes, the drills he prioritizes, and the gaps in the baseball development world that need to be fixed immediately.

✅ Topics Covered:

• Why pitchers must become better overall athletes

• Rotational power & elastic strength explained

• What baseball can learn from javelin throwers

• Speed, plyos, and sprint-based training

• How athleticism increases velocity & reduces injury

• Strength training that actually translates to the mound

• Throw Ched’s philosophy on building durable, explosive pitchers

• The future of baseball development in the high-velo era