Here's the pitching version of the Next Wave series. A handful of interesting arms here, some of which could be in Chicago this year.

 

Any thoughts on these guys?

 

you asked for thoughts, so my thought is how does every pitcher nowadays throw 95mph? back in the stone ages that area was reserved for a couple of guys in the entire major leagues. now fringy guys who may never even sniff the majors throw 95mph

you asked for thoughts, so my thought is how does every pitcher nowadays throw 95mph? back in the stone ages that area was reserved for a couple of guys in the entire major leagues. now fringy guys who may never even sniff the majors throw 95mph

That's been the trend for a number of years now, at least 15. Each year the average FB velo creeps up. There have been articles and even books written on the subject.

 

yeah I know. Its still a mystery to me. To me, adding 5mph to a 90mph fastball is inconceivable. Individuals would literally kill to be able to do that. But as a sum total, that is what is happening.

It's a result of better training and nutrition that has evolved with sports science.

It's a result of better training and nutrition that has evolved with sports science.

And an addiction to the radar gun from an early age - I think that's a factor too.

 

Also shorter stints on the mound, but I do agree, it used to be you didn't have more than a couple of guys who threw much harder than 90 if that on any one team.

Edited August 17, 20169 yr by Dick Allen

I can't help but notice how dramatically Peter Tago's ERA has dropped since he joined the Sox organization. Somebody in this Organization must've seen something.

 

It looks like the Rockies used him primarily as a Starter.

Also shorter stints on the mound, but I do agree, it used to be you didn't have more than a couple of guys who threw much harder than 90 if that on any one team.

 

There's also custom bat designs that allow hitters to get around on 98+ fast balls.