Let's talk about Dylan Cease and his journey to becoming a Cy Young contender. This story is a fascinating insight into the world of pitching and the evolution of a player's arsenal.
Cease, a right-hander now with the Blue Jays, has added a new changeup to his repertoire, and it's a game-changer. But it's not just about the pitch itself; it's a testament to the player's adaptability and the intricate science behind pitching.
The Evolution of a Pitch
Cease's old changeup, affectionately dubbed the "Bugs Bunny" pitch, was more of a trick than a reliable weapon. With an average velocity of just 78.3 mph, it was more of a novelty than a threat. However, Cease has transformed this pitch into a formidable tool.
His new changeup, thrown at a faster 84.2 mph, is a completely different beast. Despite its wonky movement, it's generating an incredible whiff rate of 63%, second only to Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia. But it's not just the numbers that are impressive; it's the strategy behind it.
The Strategy Behind the Changeup
Changeups are often used to complement a pitcher's fastball, and that's exactly what Cease is doing. By throwing a changeup in the mid-80s, he's forcing hitters to adjust their timing, especially when following a 97-98 mph fastball. It's a clever tactic that exploits the human eye's natural adjustment time.
What's even more intriguing is the unique movement profile of Cease's changeup. It drops less than comparable pitches, almost acting as a "riding" changeup. This unconventional movement adds an element of unpredictability, making it a challenging pitch to hit.
The Science of Pitching
The development of Cease's new changeup is a testament to the advancements in pitching science. With the help of modern coaching techniques and an understanding of a pitcher's natural mechanics, players can find grips and arm angles that work best for them.
Cease, a natural supinator, had to find a grip that suited his unique wrist rotation. This process, which Cease describes as "massively different" and "way more advanced," is a fascinating insight into the precision required in modern baseball.
The Future of Cease's Arsenal
Cease is still refining his new changeup, and the potential is exciting. He's aiming to get more strikes with it and increase its usage, especially against right-handed hitters. With ongoing discussions with the Blue Jays' coaching staff, Cease is on a journey of self-improvement and innovation.
This story is a reminder that baseball is a game of constant evolution and adaptation. Players like Cease are pushing the boundaries of what's possible, and it's an exciting development for the sport.
Personally, I think Cease's story is a great example of how small adjustments can lead to massive improvements. It's a testament to the power of experimentation and the human capacity for growth and change.
