07-10-2009, 04:14 PM
<!--quoteo(post=49211:date=Jul 10 2009, 03:08 PM:name=Butcher)-->QUOTE (Butcher @ Jul 10 2009, 03:08 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}><!--quotec-->He only has two pitches, but when he's right, his fastball is between 95+ and 90. His change-up is between 75 and 80, with some downward movement. He also throws everywhere in between that range -- from 75 to 95. Again, if he's right, you could see a 95 mph fastball, followed by a 75 mph change up, then a sinking change at 82 mph. Or something along those lines.
When his command is off and he can't get his fastball up in that higher range, it really limits what he can do. Instead of a 20 mph range in pitch speed, he's down to a 15 mph range, or even less. And if he can't spot his pitches, then he's going to get into trouble.<!--QuoteEnd--><!--QuoteEEnd-->
That's what I'm saying. This is why pitchers like Harden end up being converted to closers or excellent setup men. He just doesn't know how to be effective when he can't command both pitches. That's the difference between a guy with great stuff and inconsistent command, and one with 3+ pitches and consistent command but less than dominating stuff.
When his command is off and he can't get his fastball up in that higher range, it really limits what he can do. Instead of a 20 mph range in pitch speed, he's down to a 15 mph range, or even less. And if he can't spot his pitches, then he's going to get into trouble.<!--QuoteEnd--><!--QuoteEEnd-->
That's what I'm saying. This is why pitchers like Harden end up being converted to closers or excellent setup men. He just doesn't know how to be effective when he can't command both pitches. That's the difference between a guy with great stuff and inconsistent command, and one with 3+ pitches and consistent command but less than dominating stuff.