What's Happening?
Carson Whisenhunt, a pitcher for the San Francisco Giants, has demonstrated a notable increase in his pitching velocity during a simulated game at the Giants' spring training camp. According to Justice delos Santos of The San Jose Mercury News, Whisenhunt's fastball was clocked at 96-97 mph, a significant rise from his previous average of 92.6 mph last season. This improvement was measured using Trackman technology, which provides reliable data on pitch speed. Whisenhunt, who had a challenging 2025 season with a 5.01 ERA over 23.1 innings, is currently not projected to be in the starting rotation. However, this velocity boost could enhance his chances of securing a more prominent role as the team progresses through spring training and into the regular
season.
Why It's Important?
The increase in Whisenhunt's velocity is significant for the Giants as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season. A faster pitch can make a pitcher more competitive, potentially leading to better performance and results on the field. For Whisenhunt, this development could mean a breakthrough in his career, offering him a chance to solidify his position within the team. For the Giants, having a pitcher with improved capabilities could strengthen their rotation, providing more depth and options for the coaching staff. This could be crucial in a highly competitive league where pitching often plays a decisive role in a team's success.
What's Next?
As spring training continues, Whisenhunt will have opportunities to showcase his enhanced skills in Cactus League games. His performance in these games will likely determine his role in the Giants' pitching lineup for the regular season. The coaching staff will be closely monitoring his consistency and ability to maintain this increased velocity under game conditions. If Whisenhunt can sustain his performance, he may earn a spot in the starting rotation or become a key player in the bullpen, contributing to the team's overall strategy and success.
