For the first time in MLB history, the split-finger fastball, a pitch once considered to be quite rare, is taking center stage in the World Series.
The Toronto Blue Jays and L.A. Dodgers have thrown more splitters this post-season than any other teams in the pitch-tracking era (since 2008), and they’re about to shatter the record for most splitters thrown in a single World Series.
Why does that matter? Because the splitter is one of the hardest pitches to hit, and it’s making a comeback! Pitchers like Ohtani, Gausman, Yamamoto, and Yesavage are using it to dominate hitters. Gausman alone has racked up 112 strikeouts on splitters this season, the most in the league.
Of course this World Series will likely feature incredibly exciting home runs and some big names in baseball, but it will also feature smart strategy and the return of one of baseball’s nastiest pitches. It will be a showcase of elite pitching talent and exciting evolution of the game of baseball… and that is definitely something good! It will make the games even more exciting for you to watch with your friends and family.
Will you be watching Game 1 of the World Series tonight at 7pm? Let us know! Text us on the Sounds & Systems Talk & Text Line at (807) 468-HITS (4487)!
