Max Scherzer, a veteran pitcher for the Texas Rangers, believes that Major League Baseball needs to address the issue of starting pitching to enhance the game. Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, emphasized the importance of pitchers learning to navigate through a lineup multiple times to become more effective.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has expressed interest in potentially reducing the maximum number of pitchers per team from 13 to 12 in the upcoming seasons to emphasize the role of starting pitchers. Recent statistics show a decline in the average number of outs and pitches thrown by starting pitchers compared to previous years, indicating a shift in the game's dynamics.
Players like Jameson Taillon of the Chicago Cubs reminisce about the days when starting pitchers were the focal point of the game, highlighting the need to restore that allure. However, the issue is complex, involving player development strategies, bullpen usage, and overall game management.
The proposal of a 12-pitcher limit could encourage teams to rely more on their starting pitchers, but it may also strain bullpen resources and impact player movements between the majors and minors. Developing young pitchers in the minor leagues with a focus on endurance and performance could be a key solution to the current challenges faced by starting pitchers.
Concerns about pitch counts and limited innings for prospects in the minors have been raised, with Scherzer advocating for more flexibility in developing pitchers to handle higher workloads. While there is resistance to certain proposed changes, there is a consensus that action is needed to address the declining trend in starting pitching.
Coaches and managers acknowledge the importance of balancing data-driven decisions with on-field observations to determine when to allow starting pitchers to pitch deeper into games. Finding the right balance between analytics and traditional baseball strategies is crucial to reviving the art of starting pitching in MLB.
Overall, the conversation around starting pitching in Major League Baseball reflects a desire to preserve the essence of the game while adapting to modern trends and challenges. The future of starting pitching may hinge on a combination of player development reforms, strategic adjustments, and a renewed appreciation for the craft of pitching in baseball.
