Why do clubs and media focus so much on velocity? It seems like if someone isn't throwing high 90s, everyone assumes they can't make it in the Majors. Yet, there are several pitchers who have had long, prosperous careers throwing in the lower 90s. I would take command and pitch deception over straight heat almost any day in the Majors.
-- Bobby G., Carol Stream, Ill.
You're right, Bobby. Plenty of pitchers over the years have made a career out of precision over velocity. The Cubs' own Kyle Hendricks (average two-seam velocity of 86.6 mph last year, per Statcast™) is a prime example in this power-obsessed era in baseball.