Is It Time to Overhaul MLB Managers' Pitching Tactics? Letting Starters Pitch Five Inning Completions

MLB managers are faced with a challenging task in managing their pitchers throughout a grueling 162-game season. With pitchers often on a 5-day rotation schedule, the idea of letting an ace pitcher pitch complete games is not without risk. This article delves into the reasons behind this traditional approach and explores a more modern tactic that could benefit both the players and the teams.

The Current System and Its Risks

A baseball season consists of 162 games, which can take a significant toll on a pitcher's arm. Starters are typically part of a 5-day rotation, meaning they throw every fifth day. The traditional approach is to rarely let a pitcher pitch a complete game due to the potential for injury. As a pitcher continues to throw throughout the season, their technique may begin to erode. Even at speeds of 90 to 100 miles per hour, a slight change in technique can lead to a career-ending injury. Notice, early in the season, starters tend to pitch fewer innings, and by the time playoff time rolls around, the innings pitched naturally increase. Many pitching coaches can identify when a pitcher is starting to show signs of fatigue, and thus, manage their workload accordingly.

Acceptable Risks vs. Strategic Insights

One of the primary reasons for limiting complete game completions from starters is the notion that by the third or fourth time a batter faces a pitcher, their hits against the pitcher are likely to improve significantly. This is a well-documented fact backed by statistics. Therefore, the team often opts to bring in a fresh pitcher from the bullpen, increasing their chances of winning the game. The latter approach is particularly appealing when the bullpen is of decent quality. Bringing in a reliever can offer a different pitch selection, better command of in-game strategy, and a much-needed breather for the starting pitcher.

Advocating for Change in MLB Tactics

Despite the risks, some experts argue for a more flexible approach to pitching tactics. The suggestion is to consider allowing aces to pitch complete games, especially in certain situations. This could involve drafting strategies that balance the risks of injury with the benefits of a fresh pitching arm once the innings accumulate. Team managers would need to carefully monitor player fatigue and adjust their pitching schedules accordingly.

The essence of this debate lies in understanding when complete game completions from the starter are worth the risk. Teams should focus on identifying the precise moments when a player is at their peak and the circumstances under which a complete game might be advantageous. By doing so, they could optimize player performance and reduce the risk of career-altering injuries. This approach would also foster a more strategic and dynamic approach to managing games.

Conclusion

The age-old pitching strategy in Major League Baseball prioritizes the safety and longevity of the starter's arm over the likelihood of winning individual games. However, with a detailed understanding of player fatigue, injury risks, and the strategic use of the bullpen, teams can refine their tactics. By occasionally allowing aces to pitch complete games, while ensuring they are well-rested and monitored for fatigue, managers can create a more balanced and effective pitching rotation. This shift in perspective could prove to be a game-changer in the world of MLB, potentially influencing the strategies and outcomes of games.