Three Starting Pitchers Who Gained Stuff and Command
In the world of fantasy baseball, the art of identifying pitchers who have gained stuff and command is akin to finding hidden gems in a sea of data. This week, we delve into the stories of three starting pitchers who have undergone remarkable transformations, showcasing the potential for growth and success. Emerson Hancock, Gavin Williams, and Roki Sasaki are the stars of our analysis, each bringing their own unique journey to the forefront.
Emerson Hancock, once on the periphery of the Mariners' rotation, has emerged as a force to be reckoned with. His Stuff+ rating, a measure of pitch quality, has skyrocketed from below average to an impressive 102 this season. The introduction of a new cutter and curveball has played a pivotal role, but it's the sweeping slider that truly stands out. Hancock's ability to generate more whiffs and induce weak contact from right-handed hitters is a testament to his improved stuff. The sweeper, in particular, has become a nightmare for right-handed hitters, eliciting a mere .144 wOBA and .122 xwOBA. Hancock's command has also seen a significant boost, with the four-seam and sinker pitches benefiting from improved locations and a lower arm angle, making them harder to square up.
Gavin Williams, a pitcher who has historically struggled with command and control, has turned a corner this season. His ball rate has decreased, and his swinging-strike rate has increased, resulting in a career-best K-BB%. Williams' Stuff+ and Location+ ratings have both improved by 4-5 points, indicating a more consistent and effective pitch selection. The curveball, a strong pitch, has climbed to a 113 Stuff+, showcasing its above-average movement. Interestingly, the curve has been more effective against right-handed hitters, while left-handed hitters have crushed it when it's hung in the heart of the zone. Williams' four-seamer, once average, has jumped 5 points to a 104 Stuff+, relying on arm-side run rather than induced vertical break. However, command remains an issue, as evidenced by his career-low 89 Location+.
Roki Sasaki, who missed most of the 2025 season due to a right shoulder impingement, has emerged with above-average stuff. His overall Stuff+ rating has soared to 104, with notable increases in the splitter and forkball. Sasaki's splitter forkball, softer than his splitter, features a low spin rate, making it akin to a knuckleball. Despite the soft nature, Sasaki's command has improved, with both the splitter and forkball earning high Location+ ratings. The slider, with an 18-point jump in Location+, has become a filthy pitch against right-handed hitters. Sasaki's four-seamer command has also improved, but it continues to be hit hard, especially in the heart of the zone. The results haven't been consistently translated, leaving room for improvement, but Sasaki's potential is undeniable.
In conclusion, these three pitchers have demonstrated the transformative power of gaining stuff and command. Hancock, Williams, and Sasaki have each taken significant steps forward, showcasing the potential for growth and success in the MLB. As fantasy baseball managers, it's crucial to recognize these improvements and make informed decisions, whether it's holding onto these players or buying into their potential. The journey of these pitchers serves as a reminder that patience and a keen eye for talent can lead to significant rewards in the ever-evolving world of baseball.
