Relievers who were starting pitchers coming through the minor league ranks often realize a “hack” in their new role: if their command and control allow it, they can throw harder because they don’t have to keep their arm fresh for five or six innings.
This is why we see converted starters throwing much harder when they get moved to the bullpen.
By throwing harder, these hurlers often experience an increase in their strikeout rates and bat-missing ability.
Of course, it’s much harder to hit a 96-mph fastball than a 93-mph one.
This is exactly what is happening with Cleveland Guardians right-hander Hunter Gaddis.
Last year, he made a few appearances for the Guards as a depth pitcher.
He posted a 4.50 ERA in 42 innings, with 14 walks and just 24 punchouts.
He started seven of the 11 games he took part in, though.
Now, he is a reliever and his fastball velocity has spiked.
“#Guardians RHP Hunter Gaddis fastball in 2023 averaged 93.4 mph. Tonight Gaddis fastball averaged 96.6 mph,” Guardians Prospective tweeted.
#Guardians RHP Hunter Gaddis fastball in 2023 averaged 93.4 mph. Tonight Gaddis fastball averaged 96.6 mph.
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) April 2, 2024
That’s an increase of 3.2 mph.
It’s very, very significant.
The simple analysis of starter-turned-reliever is not always the whole story, though.
Pitchers, more than ever, have the tools to optimize their deliveries and mechanics, often gaining a tick or two in the process.
We don’t know what exactly is happening with Gaddis, but the Guardians sure are enjoying the results: in three innings, he still hasn’t allowed any runs and hasn’t walked anyone, accumulating four strikeouts.
This new-look Gaddis looks like a bullpen weapon.
He is much more valuable for the team in this role and in his current version than last year when he was a mediocre starter.
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