Baseball SA’s 2026–27 Pitching Workload Guidelines provide a practical framework for pitcher preparation, workload management and recovery. Being implemented across our state teams and college pathways, they also support clubs, coaches, players and families in taking a coordinated approach to pitcher development.
Built by baseball people and informed by science, the guidelines combine professional coaching experience with current research and input from experienced pitching and health professionals. They support long-term development through progressive preparation, appropriate recovery and clear communication across an athlete’s teams.
The guidelines outline:
Age-specific daily and weekly pitch limits and required rest.
Graduated pitching progressions based on throwing history and readiness.
Management of high-pitch innings and accumulated fatigue.
Planned increases and reductions in workload throughout the season.
Shared responsibilities for recording and communicating workloads.
Pitch limits are ceilings, not targets. Every pitcher’s workload should reflect their preparation, recovery and individual needs. Game pitches are only one part of the picture. Bullpens, warm up pitches, training, position play and other team commitments also contribute to total throwing workload.
We encourage clubs, coaches, players and parents to read the guidelines and work together to apply them consistently. Stricter competition requirements or individual medical restrictions always take priority.
Please note that these are guidelines and not official SABL rules.
Download the 2026–27 Baseball SA Pitching Workload Guidelines below.
For questions or support, contact Josh Tols, Performance Pathways Programs and Systems Lead.