March 04--MESA, Ariz. -- The Chicago Cubs use a radar gun for many of their pitchers' bullpen and batting practice sessions well before the exhibition season starts.
But manager Joe Maddon understands the Milwaukee Brewers' plan to eschew speed readings on their pitchers until March 15, according to MLB.com.
"I can understand the concept of just really focusing on command," Maddon said Wednesday. "I like for our guys to be focused, regardless. It doesn't matter what they're throwing, velocity-wise. "Just get hitters out, and throw strikes.
"The hitters will let you know how you're throwing the ball. I can understand why someone would want to do that."
Maddon said Tampa Bay wasn't obsessed with speed readings on their pitchers this early in spring training during his nine seasons as manager with the Rays.
The Brewers elected to stress pitchers' command over velocity early in spring training.
