My dd doesn't have to make the move to 43 until next year, but has been throwing 43 in lessons. I, after watching her, think she throws harder and better from 43 feet. Time will tell when she is actually throwing to batters at that distance, but for now it doesn't seem to have hurt her at all.
As far as pitchers being the most important, I think the team as a whole better be good the older they get! I have seen teams this year with great pitching, but not so good defense. All of a sudden the other players become more important.