What's Happening?
Chase Dollander, a pitcher for the Colorado Rockies, has reportedly corrected a mechanical flaw in his pitching delivery during the offseason. According to Thomas Harding of MLB.com, Dollander identified that he was 'too coil-y in my legs, in my leg kick,' which caused him to throw across his body, negatively impacting his command. With the assistance of T.J. Galenti, a Florida-based data scientist and baseball performance coach, Dollander was able to address this issue quickly. The adjustments have allowed him to better locate his fastball and slider, and regain the 'induced vertical break' on his fastball. Dollander, who is 24 years old, is entering the Rockies' camp healthy after recovering from a knee injury that ended his previous season prematurely.
He is expected to be a part of the Opening Day rotation. In his rookie season, Dollander posted a 6.52 ERA, 1.55 WHIP, and an 82:49 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 98 innings in 21 starts, with significant struggles at home games.
Why It's Important?
The adjustments made by Chase Dollander could have significant implications for the Colorado Rockies' pitching staff. Improved mechanics and command can lead to better performance on the mound, potentially reducing the high ERA and WHIP he experienced in his rookie season. This development is crucial for the Rockies, who are looking to strengthen their rotation and improve their overall performance in the upcoming season. Dollander's ability to effectively locate his pitches and regain the vertical break on his fastball could make him a more reliable starter, which is vital for a team that struggled with pitching consistency. Additionally, his health and readiness for the season are positive signs for the Rockies, as they aim to compete more effectively in their division.
What's Next?
As Chase Dollander enters the Rockies' camp healthy and with improved mechanics, the next steps will involve integrating these changes into live game situations during spring training. The Rockies will likely monitor his performance closely to ensure that the adjustments translate into better results on the field. If Dollander can maintain his health and continue to refine his pitching, he could become a key component of the Rockies' rotation. The team will also be looking to see how these changes impact his performance in home games, where he previously struggled. Success in these areas could lead to a more stable and effective pitching staff for the Rockies in the upcoming season.
