I'm always welcome to read studies about pitch counts or pitch injuries or pitching mechanics, as I state in any pitching conversation on this site. So if you have a study or something you're leaning on for this, I'd love to read it.
And not to be snarky -- but I'd be surprised if a study has been done that analyzes the risk on world-class athletes in prime conditioning shape throwing 130+ pitches in April. My point -- why would you ever risk injury for a game in April?
But like I said, I'd love to read any studies that discuss pitch counts that high.
If you condition properly, you can hit 120-130 early in the season, Halladay has been doing it for years. For me the number is not as important as the combo of how the pitcher is feeling, how is velocity is looking and what his location is looking like. being a starting pitcher is inherently risky and going deeper in the game increases the risk of fatigue which can lead to the factors that can produce an injury, I wouldn't deny that. But some pitchers are able to handle it and they have conditioned their body well enough to reduce the risk. Personally, I don't think there is any difference b/w them doing it in April and them doing it September.
I have some general articles that I've kept through the years since I was a pitcher and when I was a coach that I can scan when I get a chance this weekend or next (you will have to remind me). I would also like you to send me anything you have on this 130 number.