One thing Statcast™ is able to measure is perceived velocity (PV), which goes beyond traditional velocity by attempting to quantify how fast a pitch appears to a batter. It does this by factoring in the pitcher’s release point. The more extension he is able to get, the closer to the plate he releases the ball, and the more his velocity “plays up.”

To look at their high-powered arsenals another way, among full-time starters with at least 400 four-seamers thrown, Syndergaard, deGrom and Harvey ranked first, sixth and 12th in average PV. Among those with at least that many two-seamers, they were first, second and third. For good measure, deGrom and Harvey were first and fourth for sliders.

Source: Andrew Simon, mets.com

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6 comments on “Andrew Simon on the perceived velocity of Mets hurlers

  • TexasGusCC

    If I wasn’t a Mets fan, is be pissed. That’s bullshit to have the top three all on one team.

    But since I am a Mets fan, my answer is “I want rings, lots of them”.

    • TexasGusCC

      *I’d be pissed.

      Autocorrect once again annoying me, and the site didn’t allow me to edit…

  • Steve S.

    I wonder where Wheeler was (and will be) on PV? Also Matz?

  • Chris F

    I think its great and all, but that in-and-of-itself will not make the Mets the best staff in the NL, let alone the MLB.

    I love where we are, and cautiously optimistic about making the post season, but we certainly underestimate the Nats and Marlins at our own peril. Making a worthless projection, Im gonna say the winner of the NL E will do so by <5 games, and <10 will separate the top 3.

  • Matty Mets

    It’s stats like these and an overemphasis by scouts on MPH that has led to so many TJ surgeries. Heat is great, but just one factor in a pitcher’s success, along with control, movement, secondary pitches, pitch selection, mechanics, mental toughness, etc. A 98mph fastball will get you to the majors but it doesn’t guarantee success. For every Nolan Ryan there is a Bobby Parnell and a Greg Maddux.

  • Eraff

    I’m not sure we “know” that an emphasis on velocity is a cause toward blown out elbows.

    I do think it leads to bad pitch selections and lack of emphasis on location and changing speeds… It gets you some ill advised 0-2 challenge fastballs that become hits. 3-1 “get me overs” that become home runs

    Velocity is a tool. It’s devastating in a great mix…. Very much less meaningful when it’s a steady flow of thoughtless chucking

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