"If there’s one thing we’ve learned in baseball over the past two decades, it’s that technology isn’t just changing the game—it’s redefining it. From the introduction of TrackMan to the high-speed cameras dissecting every pitch, the sport is evolving faster than ever. Now, there’s a new tool on the horizon that could take pitching performance to places we’ve never seen.

Let me tease you with a number first: 110.

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) therapy is making its way from the rehab room to the bullpen, and Dr. Tyler White is leading the charge. I’ve known Dr. White for years, both in his work as a rehab and performance guru for pitchers, and as the organizer of the World Pitching Congress. In a wide-ranging conversation, Dr. White explained why BFR isn’t just another training fad—it might be the key to unlocking human potential on the mound.

What is Blood Flow Restriction?

Let’s start with the basics. Blood Flow Restriction is exactly what it sounds like—restricting blood flow to a limb. Sounds simple enough, right? Not so fast. I remember first hearing about this technique back in 2015. Stephania Bell of ESPN spoke on the topic at PBATS in terms of rehabilitation. If I remember correctly, it was being used for rehab in the military at the time. I was intrigued and have followed the progression over almost a decade.

“It’s funny because the name is so self-explanatory,” Dr. White said with a laugh. “But the process isn’t something you just try at home. This isn’t wrapping a belt around your arm and hoping for the best. The Delfi system we use is highly technical. It calibrates to the individual’s [limb pressures] in real time and maintains precise occlusion levels, even during movement.” Occlusion is just that simple, slowing or even stopping the flow of blood. If you’re thinking a high tech tourniquet, you’re exactly right."