One of the first measurements utilized is pitch velocity when evaluating pitchers at the start of a new season. As fans, we tend to become enthralled with hurlers reaching new highs while panicking when someone is below their usual marks. A significant jump velocity opens up a whole new range of possibilities, while a rather precarious decline could indicate trouble. Take Bryan Abreu as a recent example of the former and Pedro Báez for the latter.
Talking about relievers, it is no secret that the Astros’ bullpen will only go as far as Ryan Pressly takes them. That is not to bash the other relievers on the staff, who have pitched relatively well to start the season.