Rates & Barrels: A show about Baseball Fearing the Fade: Starting Pitcher Regression Candidates
Jun 5, 2025
The hosts dive into the injury implications of several starting pitchers, including Pablo López and Hunter Greene. They discuss the regression candidates like Andrew Abbott and analyze factors contributing to pitching performance, like command and pitch types. There's a focus on the unpredictability of strikeout rates and walk rates among pitchers. They also explore how changes in baseball dynamics, such as drag, affect outcomes. Amusing anecdotes from their own team experiences add a light-hearted touch.
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Episode notes
Pablo Lopez's Changeup Adjustment
- Pablo Lopez's changeup has four inches more drop and two inches less fade this year.
- This subtle change may have contributed to his career-best ratios before injury.
Pitch Types and Injury Risks
- Splitters can affect pitching mechanics and potentially lead to injury if thrown incorrectly.
- The kick changeup places less stress on fingers and is unlikely to cause injury.
David Festa's Short Outing Role
- David Festa is likely limited to facing around 19-20 batters due to his small pitch arsenal.
- His role fits modern pitching trends emphasizing shorter outings and specialized usage.