Chippy wrote:sporter wrote:Agree completely with the comments on the relievers. With Coastal's slight leveling off early on (including losing to UNCA yesterday), and our early season troubles making it very tough for an at-large bid this year, the conference tourney becomes potentially our one realistic way into the Regionals. WIth the number of games in the tourney, we have to have a few of the other guys sharp and ready to go - hard to do when the starters are dealing, but have to find out who the next level is and get them some innings.
Also, about Forslund. One thing a couple of us were discussing yesterday was the increased value the new bats put on pitchers ball movement. WIth the sweet spot of the bat essentially going from 12 inches to 5, a slight cut or run on the fastball becomes much more valuable now than the extra few mph. It is much more difficult for a hitter with this bat to "center" the ball when there is an ever so slight run or cut to it. They may actually welcome the 93 mph "straight" pitch. Haven't seen him pitch live yet so not in any way saying this applies to Forslund and that his ball doesn't move but just something we were discussing in general yesterday that could apply here.
Just a quick comment on Coastal. The stats 100% tell the story... Coastal is hitting .240 as a team right now while their pitching staff is (amazingly) holding opponents to .223 and has a ridiculous 2.89 ERA. Those are gaudy numbers. And yet -- the truth is -- if the opponents is holding you to 4-5 runs a game they are going to have a shot in college baseball....
Watching on TV the ball seemed pretty flat. He needs to put a little tail or cut the fast ball once in awhile even if it means giving up a little velocity. A straight change might also benefit him. The other thought is he seems to get behind in counts and has to come over with the fat one. When you're looking for a fastball, especially one 92-94 mph, it is very hittable for most college level players.
- By LU Armchair coach
- By Sly Fox