How Much is Too Much?

On average, how many games should a pitcher be prepared to pitch over the course of a weekend?

 

That depends....

That depends on what type, level, she is pitching for...

Local tournaments such as NSA, AAU, USSSA, etc. as many as 4 or 5 games in a weekend (or maybe more if in loser's bracket).

Showcase tournaments, I know of pitchers that pitch every game in a weekend, but I think it is better, for them to switch off, at least, every other game, so that each pitcher, is allowed to showcase their best, each game! If you are tired you are not showcasing your best. But be prepared to pitch a lot more than you are going to, just in case you have too.
Not to mention, when you prepare yourself to pitch 5 games and you only pitch 3 games, you will be stronger in the 3 games.
I think a good number of pitches to throw or work up to, is 250. I am sure their are pitching coaches that give better answer to that.

Hope that helps!

 

Clarifying Question

Does the age of the pitcher matter?

 

Yes...

Yes, IMO it matters, you can't expect the same from a 10 yr old pitcher, that you expect from an 18 yr old pitcher! There are different levels of practice, per age level. You increase the amount of pitches/time as they improve or grow!

 

I've seen a pitcher throw 5 games in a day. It makes me cringe!