As spring training camps open, it's time to reflect on the standout performances of the 2023 MLB season. In a detailed analysis of the best four-seam fastballs, we delve into the top pitchers who excelled in this particular pitch category.
The four-seam fastball, despite being the least effective pitch in the game, continues to be a weapon for many elite pitchers. Among the top performers in this category were Pablo Lopez of the Minnesota Twins, Zack Wheeler of the Philadelphia Phillies, Spencer Strider of the Atlanta Braves, and Luis Castillo of the Seattle Mariners.
Lopez, who earned an 'A+' grade, showcased exceptional contact management and a high whiff rate with his four-seam fastball. Wheeler's fastball stood out for its impressive contact management and velocity, earning him an 'A+' grade as well.
Strider's fastball, rated 'A,' was notable for its high bat-missing ability and significant vertical movement. Castillo, also graded 'A,' demonstrated a remarkable ability to generate swings and misses despite some challenges in contact management.
Other standout pitchers with top-performing four-seam fastballs included Bailey Ober and Joe Ryan of the Twins, George Kirby of the Mariners, Sandy Alcantara of the Miami Marlins, Freddy Peralta of the Milwaukee Brewers, and Yusei Kikuchi of the Toronto Blue Jays.
On the flip side, pitchers like Patrick Corbin, Jameson Taillon, Kyle Bradish, and Kyle Hendricks struggled with their four-seam fastballs, earning lower grades due to issues with contact management and bat-missing ability.
Overall, the best four-seam fastballs of the 2023 season were characterized by high velocity, spin, and movement, with pitchers like Lopez, Wheeler, and Strider showcasing the effectiveness of this pitch in their arsenals.
As teams gear up for the upcoming season, the performance of these pitchers and their signature pitches will undoubtedly be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
