- Thu Feb 20, 2025 1:10 pm
#6492
Jake Irvin's addition of a slider this offseason has the potential to be a game-changer for his performance on the mound. After a promising start to 2024, Irvin's struggles down the stretch highlighted a critical issue: predictability. With nearly 90% of his pitches being either a fastball or a curveball, hitters began to catch on, leading to a significant drop in his effectiveness.
Now that he has a slider in his arsenal, the question arises: can this pitch truly unlock his potential as a mid-rotation starter? Sliders are known for their ability to deceive hitters, and if Irvin can effectively integrate this pitch, it could make his fastball and curveball even more potent.
What do you think? Is the slider the missing piece for Irvin, or do you believe he needs to refine other aspects of his game to succeed? How important is pitch variety in a pitcher’s development, especially for someone like Irvin who is still learning the ropes in the big leagues?
Additionally, what are your bold predictions for Irvin's 2025 season? Can he push for 200 innings with a sub-4 ERA, or will the pressure of increased expectations weigh him down? Share your thoughts and insights!
Now that he has a slider in his arsenal, the question arises: can this pitch truly unlock his potential as a mid-rotation starter? Sliders are known for their ability to deceive hitters, and if Irvin can effectively integrate this pitch, it could make his fastball and curveball even more potent.
What do you think? Is the slider the missing piece for Irvin, or do you believe he needs to refine other aspects of his game to succeed? How important is pitch variety in a pitcher’s development, especially for someone like Irvin who is still learning the ropes in the big leagues?
Additionally, what are your bold predictions for Irvin's 2025 season? Can he push for 200 innings with a sub-4 ERA, or will the pressure of increased expectations weigh him down? Share your thoughts and insights!
- By Anonymous