F.A.Q.

Answer:  Arrighetti's increased use of the changeup signifies a shift towards a more diversified pitching strategy. By incorporating this pitch, he aims to disrupt hitters' timing and create softer contact, which can lead to ground balls and potential double plays. This adjustment could enhance his effectiveness against lineups that have seen him before.

Answer:  Entering the 2024 season, Arrighetti is projected to be a key player in the Astros' rotation. With improvements in command and a focus on strategic pitching, he could emerge as a reliable starter. If he maintains the upward trend seen late last season, he could significantly impact the Astros' playoff aspirations.

Answer:  In the latter part of last season, Arrighetti focused on throwing breaking pitches in the zone more consistently, leading to improved strikeout rates. He also reduced his walk percentage, indicating better command. This shift allowed him to keep hitters engaged and guessing, which contributed to his success.

Answer:  Improving command for Spencer Arrighetti will require focusing on pitch placement and effective use of his arsenal. By refining his mechanics, especially on his breaking pitches, he can induce more weak contact and minimize walks. Watching video to analyze pitch sequences that led to success will also be essential for his development.

Answer:  With the introduction of the ABS system, pitchers like Spencer Arrighetti will need to adjust their strategies to accommodate a more consistent strike zone. This includes being precise with pitch locations, knowing that hitters will become more adept at recognizing balls and strikes. As hitters adapt to the system, pitchers may need to innovate by incorporating more movement in their pitches or varying their approach to challenge hitters who have a better understanding of the strike zone.

Answer:  Stepping into a leadership role, Spencer Arrighetti faces the challenge of balancing personal performance with mentorship. He must ensure that he continues to develop his skills while also guiding younger pitchers like Hunter Brown and Ronel Blanco. This dual responsibility can be daunting, especially in a high-stakes environment like the MLB, where performance pressures are rampant.

Answer:  Following the All-Star break, Spencer Arrighetti demonstrated significant improvements, posting a 3.18 ERA and limiting opponents to a .226 batting average. His strikeout rate also surged, with 78 strikeouts in just 65 innings, indicating he found better command and effectiveness on the mound. This upward trend bodes well for his potential breakout in the upcoming season.

Answer:  Arrighetti's reliability hinges on his ability to consistently execute his pitches. While he has shown dominance at times, his inconsistency can lead to elevated slugging percentages against him. If he can manage his location and approach hitters strategically, he could become a critical part of the Astros' rotation.

Answer:  Arrighetti's strikeout rate is bolstered by his ability to locate his fastball and leverage his elite curveball effectively. When his location is precise, he can dominate, making him a valuable asset in tight matchups. However, improving his consistency will be vital for maximizing his strikeout potential.