June 11, 2007

Long-toss tunes up Linebrink

By Tom Krasovic and Bill Center

Cars and computers need tuneups. For Scott Linebrink's pitching arm, the best treatment is “long-toss.” Linebrink says the 200-foot pregame throws across the outfield allow him to trouble-shoot and sharpen his form while also strengthening his arm.

A session in early May paid off for Linebrink, who found his best release point, which led to a turnaround that has further enhanced a Padres bullpen that has the lowest ERA in the league.