Did I hear Michelle Smith correctly last night claiming that a 'leap' is actually a 'disadvantage' to the pitcher (mechanically) because the 'drive' behind the pitch is 'up and not directly towards home plate'?

That is simple physics. A given force from the push off the plate is divided between the vertical and horizontal components. The vertical component, which causes the leap, will reduce what is left for the horizontal component, thereby reducing the drive toward the plate.

This ignores the friction from dragging the foot that is not present during the leap itself.

interesting, But wouldn't that same force by applied in the opposite direction when the 'leap' is going back down? you know that ole 32' per sec squared thingy.

(and the drag dealio makes alot of sense)

Yes, Dakota ... however, I believe the reason a leap aids the pitcher is not the movement vertical at all, but rather the faster arm motion. Why? If the girl could throw with her current motion without her momentum bringing her off the ground, she would. But she can't. She has to throw less hard in order to not bring herself off the ground.

Yes, due to gravity the vertical movement will pull her back to the ground as fast as she left. But it won't cause her to move toward the plate. That's all a factor of her horizontal force and drag (which increases I would think substantially when the foot is on the ground).
________
Marijuana Card

We seem to be due for a dissertation from our resident pitching physiologist.

One simple question for Michelle Smith.

If it is a disadvantage to the pitcher, why aren't the coaches talking to the pitcher instead of the umpire? :rolleyes:

Don't think I'll hold my breath waiting on that answer.:cool:

Its not just softball:

Watching the UT/TCU super regionals on ESPN. wide throw to 1st base by F5 and there is some contact by BR and F3. Announcer says;

"ya know, that could be called interference obstruction on the batter. The umpire has to be aware if this and call the runner out. The 1st baseman is protected and the runner can't touch him. The have to run in the second lane called the running lane and if they don't, they are out. I think that was interference obstruction.'