Every morning, the We Love Baseball crew reviews the Nastiest Pitches from the previous day’s games. If you see something you think should be included here be sure to tweet @PitcherList to let us know. Or, if you’re a PL+ Member and part of our Discord, shout it out in the Nastiest Pitches channel.
Kyle Finnegan’s Slider
Two saves in one day for the indelible Kyle Finnegan, who keeps proving the doubters wrong with his reliable ninth-inning stuff. Finnegan struck out two as the Nationals swept the double-header over the Pirates. This game-ending 86 mph hard slider was a n-a-s-t-y pitch from start to finish.
Nestor Cortes‘ Changeup
Piggybacking Clarke Schmidt, Nestor Cortes was impressive through four and a third innings to earn his ninth win of the season. His changeup, not thrown a great deal, was particularly effective and responsible for two of his three Ks. This lovely 85 mph change to fell Christian Bethancourt was his pitch of the day.
Ryan Pepiot’s Changeup
Another brilliant changeup from yesterday’s action, this time from Rays young gun Ryan Pepiot. The former Dodger has been a bright spot for the Rays during a disappointing season. The execution of this pitch is the definition of nasty.
Brady Basso’s Curveball
Six scoreless innings in his first big league start, hats off to Brady Basso, the A’s young gun who is looking to make a name for himself with his signature 12-6 curveball. This slow 76 mph effort drops from heaven to nestle at the bottom of the zone. Matt Vierling was perplexed.
Jason Foley’s Sinker
This is the perfect way to finish a ball game from red-hot Tigers closer Jason Foley. 98 mph with plus movement darting in to the dangerous Zack Gelof. Nicely done, and nasty!
Jose Quintana’s Changeup
Nine straight wins for the Mets and veteran Jose Quintana was excellent through six and two-thirds, shutting out the Reds and mixing up his arsenal with aplomb. A vicious 86 mph changeup here to fool superstar Elly De La Cruz.
Devin Williams‘ Changeup
The Airbender at its glorious best!
José Berríos‘ Slurve
The Blue Jays owe a lot to their veteran pitching aces over the last few months, and none more so than José Berríos, who has been a rock at the top of the rotation. Earning his 15th win of the season, Berrios struck out five and has now won his last six starts at a canter. This beautiful 83 mph slurve to get Matt Olson was a beauty.