Three Starting Pitchers Who Gained Stuff and Command
In the world of fantasy baseball, it's crucial to stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions. This week, we delve into the performances of three starting pitchers who have seen significant improvements in their stuff and command. These pitchers have caught the attention of analysts and fantasy managers alike, and it's time to explore why.
Emerson Hancock: A Rising Star
Emerson Hancock, a pitcher for the Mariners, has emerged as a standout performer this season. Once on the outside looking in, Hancock secured a spot in the rotation and has since impressed with a career-high 20.3% K-BB%. This improvement is attributed to gains across the board, particularly in his stuff.
Hancock's Stuff+ has skyrocketed from below average to an impressive 102. The introduction of a new cutter and curveball has played a significant role, but it's his sweeping slider that truly stands out. The sweeper now boasts a 124 Stuff+, up from 104 last year, with increased movement and usage against right-handed hitters.
The sweeper's effectiveness is evident in its ability to generate weak contact, as right-handed hitters struggle to make solid contact. Hancock's command has also improved, as evidenced by Location+, with his four-seam and sinker pitches benefiting from better locations and mechanics.
Gavin Williams: Command and Control
Gavin Williams, a pitcher for the Guardians, has historically struggled with command and control, but this season has seen a remarkable turnaround. Williams has increased his swinging-strike rate to 13.6%, resulting in a career-best K-BB% of 21.1%. His Stuff+ and Location+ scores have both improved by 4-5 points, indicating enhanced pitch quality.
Williams' curveball has been a standout pitch, with above-average downward and horizontal movement. It's particularly effective against right-handed hitters, but left-handed hitters have found ways to exploit it. The four-seamer has also improved, with increased arm-side run and extension, although it continues to be a challenge to command.
The sinker, a newer pitch for Williams, has shown promise, with higher usage against right-handed hitters and improved locations. However, left-handed hitters continue to crush it.
Roki Sasaki: Stuff and Command Evolution
Roki Sasaki, a pitcher for the Dodgers, has undergone a remarkable transformation after missing most of the 2025 season due to a right shoulder impingement. Sasaki's Stuff+ has increased significantly, with notable gains in his splitter and the introduction of a forkball. The forkball, in particular, stands out with its soft velocity and unique characteristics.
Sasaki's command has also improved, with high-end grades for his splitter and forkball. The slider has seen a significant Location+ improvement, and Sasaki's four-seamer command has also enhanced, with better locations in the upper parts of the zone.
Despite the impressive improvements, Sasaki's results haven't been consistently translated. The heater remains a challenge, and its usage may decrease if it continues to be hit hard.
Conclusion
These three pitchers, Hancock, Williams, and Sasaki, have demonstrated the potential for significant growth and improvement. Their gains in stuff and command have led to better outcomes and have caught the attention of fantasy managers. While results may vary, these pitchers are worth considering for buy-high scenarios, especially in dynasty leagues.
As an analyst, it's essential to stay informed and make data-driven decisions. These pitchers' performances highlight the importance of tracking pitch quality and command, which can significantly impact a pitcher's success. Keep an eye on these rising stars as they continue to evolve and impact their respective teams.
