Switch pitchers in the MLB

Question

past or present, are there any pitchers in the MLB that can throw left and right handed? I've seen allot of switch hitters but, never a switch pitcher.

Answer 1

Yes. There was one in recent times (1980s-90s) though he only did it once.

There is one kid in the Yankees system, who had an entertaining matchup with a switch-hitter earlier this season.

And there were a few way back in the 19th century who could do it, and sometimes did.

You did not ask for names, so none are given.

Yes, there have been switch-pitchers. They are quite a rare breed.

Answer 2

The kid in the Yankees system is Pat Venditte

There was also an Expos pitcher in 1995 named Greg Harris. He threw one inning of shutout ball for the Montreal Expos against the Cincinnati Reds. Harris faced a total of four hitters -- two as a righty, and two as a lefty (one of whom he walked).

Harris had a reversible glove with two thumbs that allowed him to place it on either his right or his left hand. It's also worth noting that while Harris is the only person to manage this feat in the 20th century, there were a few "switch pitchers" who pulled it off pre-1900 and several more who reportedly did it in the bullpen (though never in an actual game).

Answer 3

I can't imagine that any pitcher would be effective doing right and left.

He would have to be superman or bionic!

Answer 4

There isn't any currently but in the past and the minor leagues there are some.