I find it weird that I need to do this, but today we're going to go in depth on Patrick Corbin after his 5.0 IP, 2 ER, 6 Hits, 1 BBs, 6 Ks start against the Braves. Over his last six starts prior to this one, Corbin held a 10.54 K/9, 2.57 BB/9, 3.34 ERA, 2.40 FIP, and a 54.9% groundball rate. Solid numbers, though the only tough team of the bunch were the Dodgers...where he lasted just 4.2 IP and allowed 3 ERs with a near 2.00 WHIP. So of course, as always, we ask the question: Has there been a significant change that can make us believe this is real? Here's what I've seen: Corbin was getting whiffs on his Slider and Changeup at rates of 20.19% and 5.83% prior to this run. After? Changeup whiff rate doubled to 12.50%, Slider to 26.42%. That's good. He got six more on his Slider today for a 20% rate today...and 0/14 on his Changeup. Welp, can't win em all. There isn't much else telling about these outings and while it's possible Corbin has figured out his command significantly, I'm going to attribute this moreso with the competition he's faced. Still, not the worst flier for a 12-teamer - especially if you need the strikeouts - but don't let this give you the brass to start him against the Nationals. That's a terrible idea.
Let’s see how every other SP did yesterday:
Nice call on the “games to watch” yesterday. gem matchups did not disappoint.
Fulmer working on a curve now. Tested it a few times yesterday. Could this be what he needs to develop to get more K’s? Not going to complain about the efficiency and dependable super low WHIP, but the predictable first pitch 4seamer got people swinging early now.
Yeah I definitely think Fulmer feels the need to get another pitch in the mix. He doesn’t have that incredible whiff pitch is the problem and I’m skeptical that this Curveball can be it. It’s possible he can mix the deuce instead of his Slider as a strike-getter, saving the sharper slide piece as a putaway option. I wouldn’t bet on it though.
“This creates a sell faster than mitosis.” I hadn’t heard that one before and I couldn’t be more pleased.
Gotta keep you guys on your toes.