A Deep Dive into the Oakland A’s Ace’s Approach to the Mound
Chris Bassitt, the Oakland A’s ace, is not your average pitcher. In an era dominated by power arms and high velocity, Bassitt has carved out a niche for himself as a master craftsman of the game.
The Craft of Pitching
To Bassitt, pitching is not just about throwing hard or striking out batters. It’s about controlling the zone, mixing pitches, and outsmarting the opposition. He studies hitters’ tendencies, analyzes data, and uses his knowledge to craft a game plan that gives him the advantage.
A Variety of Pitches
Bassitt’s repertoire is diverse and deceptive. He throws a four-seam fastball in the low 90s, a sinker that drops off sharply, a cutter, and a changeup that keeps batters guessing.
- Four-seam fastball: Bassitt’s primary pitch, which he can locate on both sides of the plate
- Sinker: A pitch that dives down and away from right-handed batters
- Cutter: A pitch that moves like a slider but with less break
- Changeup: A slower pitch that drops out of the strike zone
Precision and Control
Bassitt is known for his exceptional precision and control. He consistently throws his pitches in the desired location and rarely walks batters. This ability to command the zone forces hitters to put the ball in play and gives the A’s defense a chance to make plays.
In the Zone
Bassitt’s focus on throwing strikes is evident in his impressive strikeout-to-walk ratio. In 2021, he struck out 158 batters while walking only 24. This ability to keep the ball in the zone and avoid free passes is a crucial part of his success.
A Durable Ace
Beyond his pitching skills, Bassitt is also known for his durability and consistency. He has averaged over 30 starts and 180 innings per season since joining the A’s. His ability to stay healthy allows him to provide a stable presence in the team’s rotation.
Conclusion
Chris Bassitt is a true believer in the craft of pitching. His ability to mix pitches, control the zone, and outsmart hitters makes him one of the most effective pitchers in the league. As the Oakland A’s look to compete in 2023, Bassitt will once again be a key part of their success.
Kind regards Z. McDowell
