Spencer Strider's return from surgery showed promise, but his performance indicated a need for strategic adjustments to enhance his effectiveness.
The podcast analyzed how advancements in hitting technology have led to hitters closing the developmental gap that pitchers once held.
Jacob Wilson's contact-heavy approach raises questions about his patience and pitch selection, suggesting he may need to develop a more selective batting strategy.
Deep dives
Utilizing LinkedIn Sales Navigator for Effective Prospecting
Sales professionals often face challenges in identifying genuine buyers amid countless leads. LinkedIn’s Sales Navigator serves as a strategic partner that enhances the prospecting process, allowing salespeople to engage with high-value customers effectively. The platform includes new AI features that facilitate finding the right people and initiating meaningful conversations at scale. This integration of technology helps sales teams optimize their outreach, ultimately driving increased revenue and enhancing overall sales performance.
Spencer Strider's Return and Performance Analysis
The episode discusses Spencer Strider's recent return to the mound after undergoing internal brace surgery, analyzing his performance during his first start back against the Blue Jays. Observations indicate a slight decrease in velocity, which is common post-injury recovery, raising questions about his pitching dynamics. Despite this, Strider showcased an aggressive approach, particularly with his slider, while also demonstrating a need to incorporate his curveball and changeup more strategically. Experts noted that while he displayed promising signs, adjustments will be crucial for his effectiveness moving forward.
The Gap Between Hitting and Pitching Development
The podcast explores the evolving landscape of hitting and pitching development, suggesting that hitters are closing the gap that pitchers previously held due to advancements in data accessibility. Since tracking pitch movements began in 2007, pitchers have had a head start in utilizing data for their development compared to hitters, who gained access to meaningful metrics like exit velocity and launch angle much later. New technologies like video analysis and bat path grades are enabling hitters to refine their performance similarly to pitchers. This evolving paradigm is expected to enhance player development and overall game integrity as both hitters and pitchers utilize advanced data-driven insights.
Jacob Wilson's Unconventional Hitting Approach
Jacob Wilson is presented as an example of a modern hitter whose style diverges from contemporary trends, emphasizing contact over power. While his ability to put the ball in play consistently is impressive, questions arise regarding his lack of patience at the plate and tendency to swing at a diverse array of pitches. Analysts draw parallels between Wilson and other contact-heavy players, noting that his lineage as the son of former player Jack Wilson may influence his approach to the game. The discussion suggests that developing a more selective approach could be crucial for Wilson to elevate his game and maximize his potential in a competitive lineup.
Gavin Williams' Current Struggles and Potential Solutions
The episode addresses Gavin Williams' underwhelming performance as a promising pitcher, highlighting issues with his pitch selection and execution. It is noted that he has relied too heavily on his fastball, while inconsistently utilizing his cutter and slider, which could provide better results if reintroduced. Analysts express hope that Williams will optimize his pitch mix to improve his effectiveness on the mound. Emphasis is placed on the importance of refining his breaking pitches to complement his fastball, as enhanced pitch variety would likely lead to better outcomes in his games.
Eno, Trevor, and DVR discuss the return of Spencer Strider before digging into Eno's recent story with Britt Ghiroli and Jen McCaffrey examining the progress of hitting tech and development and the efforts to close the gap on pitching. Plus, they discuss the challenge of game-planning for Jacob Wilson, and the early struggles of Gavin Williams.
Eno's story with Britt & Jen ($): https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6270614
Rundown
1:00 Spencer Strider's Return From Internal Brace Surgery
8:56 Fatigue Likely a Factor on Wednesday
15:35 Is Hitting Development Catching Up to Pitching?
29:25 How I'd Pitch This Guy: Jacob Wilson
43:54 What's Behind Gavin Williams' Early Struggles?
51:38 Ambushed! Eno-Proof Trivia?!
Follow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.social
Follow DVR on Bluesky: @dvr.bsky.social
Follow Trevor on Bluesky: @iamtrevormay.bsky.social
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