Traditional Fastballs and Curveballs: Early 20th-century pitchers primarily relied on fastballs and curveballs. Strategies were less specialized, with a focus on basic pitching mechanics and control.
– Diverse Pitches: By the mid-20th century, pitchers began incorporating the slider and changeup. These pitches added variety to their arsenal, making it more challenging for batters to anticipate pitches. –
High Velocity: The late 20th century saw the emergence of power pitchers who relied on high-velocity fastballs. This shift emphasized throwing as hard as possible, often exceeding 95 mph.
Role Specialization: The 1990s and 2000s introduced the concept of specialty relievers, including setup men and closers. This strategy involved using pitchers in specific situations to maximize effectiveness.
Data-Driven Strategies: In the 2000s, teams began using advanced analytics to evaluate pitchers’ performance. Metrics like strikeout rates, walk rates, and pitch type effectiveness became central to pitching strategies.
High-Tech Tools: Modern pitchers use technology such as PitchFX and Statcast to analyze pitch movement and performance. This data helps refine pitching strategies and improve game preparation.
Injury Prevention: Recent years have seen an increased focus on managing pitch counts and preventing arm injuries. Teams now implement strict pitch limits and recovery protocols to protect pitchers' long-term health.