Every morning we review the nastiest pitches from the previous day’s games in glorious HD GIFs. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite pitch and and check back this weekend to see if it will be in contention for the GIF of the First Half. Did we miss your favorite pitch? Send us a tweet next time @ThePitcherList and we’ll GIF it up + give you a shoutout here in the article.
David Phelps‘ Cutter – Phelps has been fantastic for the Marlins in the set-up role, and he dominates using a harsh Two-Seamer moving away to left-handers mixed with a smooth Cutter that breaks away from right-handers. He displayed the latter last night to Steve Pearce who had no choice but to head back to the dugout. (Thanks to Redditors MarlinsGuy, iharland, and drphillysblunt for the tip!)
Corey Kluber’s Slider – The Klubot was officially activated against the White Sox Wednesday afternoon as he struck out nine batters in 8.1 innings. His final out of the day came on this wicked Slider to Todd Frazier that looks to change direction two-thirds of the way through the pitch. Filthy. (Thanks to @account_stats for the tip!)
Jose Quintana’s Curveball – It was yet another Quality Start for Quintana against the Tribe as he allowed 3 ER in six frames. He got through the game relying on his hook, which was at its best on this pitch to Mike Napoli.
Ivan Nova’s Fastball – Nova exhibited his strikeout upside for the first time this season as he fanned eight Blue Jays in the Bronx. His Fastball had lively movement while coming in at 94mph, and used it to strike out Justin Smoak in the first inning. (Thanks to Redditors ithrow88 and akaSpac3 for the tip!)
Jake Arrieta’s Curveball – It wasn’t Arrieta at his sharpest as he faced his division rivals, but he still made some Arrieta-esque pitches through the outing. For example, watch how he ended the second inning with a luscious front-door Curveball.
GIF Of The Night
Which was your favorite pitch? Vote below and the winner will be featured in the GIF of the First Half contest.
[polldaddy poll=9429297]