Sal Frelick of the Milwaukee Brewers is the kind of player the Launch Angle Revolution squeezed out of the game. He is a full-time right fielder on pace to hit eight home runs and slug less than .400. In the five full seasons from 2018–23, there were no Frelicks—no qualified right fielders with such low slugging numbers. Teams chased a thirst for power— for more Joey Gallos—while excusing the swing-and-miss.
Then the rules changed. Shifts were outlawed. Stolen bases were made easier. Range and athleticism mattered. And as pitchers complement increased velocity with a science-based emphasis on the three S’s—shaping, sequencing and spinning—hitters who can put the bat on the ball are gaining new importance.
