Ben Brown's recent performances as a starting pitcher have been nothing short of remarkable, especially considering the Cubs' struggles during their losing streak. His ability to consistently deliver strong outings has been a bright spot for the team, and it's fascinating to delve into the factors contributing to his success.
One of the most striking aspects of Brown's pitching is his groundball rate. With a near 60% groundball rate, he's on the cusp of having the highest starter groundball rate in baseball, which is quite an achievement. This rate is even more impressive when considering that it's not just his sinker contributing; his four-seamer is also generating a 50% groundball rate. This is particularly intriguing because traditionally, four-seamers are expected to operate at the top of the zone and produce more whiffs and pop-ups, not groundballs.
What makes this even more fascinating is the fact that Brown's four-seamer has a lower launch angle and more arm-side movement compared to the average four-seamer. This suggests that he's achieving better results with his four-seamer by slightly altering its characteristics. It's almost as if the pitch is bleeding together with his sinker, which is primarily a four-seamer-like pitch. This blending of pitches could be the key to his success, allowing him to deceive batters and induce weak contact.
However, it's essential to note that Brown's success isn't just about the addition of a sinker or the improvement of his changeup. It's also about the nearly two years of development time he's had to refine his skills. This extended exposure has undoubtedly contributed to his overall improvement, making him a more complete pitcher.
In my opinion, Brown's ability to adapt and refine his pitches is what sets him apart. His willingness to experiment and make adjustments has led to a more versatile and effective pitching repertoire. This is a testament to his dedication and hard work, and it's exciting to see the results of his efforts.
As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how Brown continues to develop and whether he can maintain this elite level of performance. His ability to consistently deliver strong starts and keep the Cubs' winning streak alive is a testament to his talent and determination. Personally, I think he has the potential to become an even more dominant force in the league, and I'm eager to see how his journey unfolds.
