Video of the Day: Switch-Pitcher

This is something you have to see to believe. Creighton's Pat Venditte is the only documented "switch-pitcher" in college baseball today. Born right-handed, Venditte showed proficiency with both arms at age 3, which prompted his father to help develop them both. Today, Venditte is a starter and reliever for Creighton, a manager's dream because he matches up against either left- or right-handed batters.

Venditte's deliveries are not mirrors of each other. His right-handed delivery is more over the top, with a 91-mph fastball and a slow curveball, while his left hand comes in sidearm with a sharp, biting slider. He uses a custom-made glove with four finger holes and two thumb holes so that he can switch hands seamlessly.

Venditte was drafted by the Yankees in the 45th round last year but chose to return to Creighton for his senior season. Scouts have fallen in love with this guy; after all, the manager wouldn't have to go into the pen for a lefty, he would just have to ask his pitcher to switch hands!

What happens when he faces a switch-hitter, you ask? An old rule dictates that the pitcher must declare which hand he will use before the at-bat.

Here's an interesting NY Times feature about Venditte from last year. Let's hope Vandy doesn't have to face this guy at all during the NCAA tournament this year.