Underrated comment here. It will definitely affect older pitchers especially ones like Verlander that are so set in their ways. His whole routine will need to change now.
Just browsing through the game logs, it looks like Verlander hasn't pitched for NYM yet this spring so we can't really see how he deals with the changes. But one of the upsides of him being around so long is him also having seen a LOT of change in his time, and learning to adapt. I have a feeling if he starts declining this year it won't be because of the sped up game, but just Father Time finally coming a-knockin'
Haven’t been following Spring training but looking forward to Opening day at Target Field with the Stros at the Twins. It’s April 6 so hope there’s no snow..
Half the team are starters. Do you think they'll still be limited to 2 PA (except DH) or are we expecting that to change?
Jeremy Peña was called for a "delay of game" yesterday and was penalized a strike. So with the pitch clock now does this make the quick pitch obsolete or a bigger part of the game? There is a fine line there between where a pitcher has to wait for the batter to be set and the pitcher's own concern about the clock. Can the ump determine that the batter is "not ready" in his view when the batter is still digging in with the back foot like Tucker likes to do?
My guess is that the quicker pace will keep players tuned into the game instead of lulled to sleep by delay tactics. As such, batters will be less susceptible to the quick pitch.
Will Wagner and Justin Dirden look really promising. Dirden might make the team if Brantley isn't ready. I love his swing.
