Max Scherzer’s Changeup
May 7, 2008 – 12:11 amIn the voiceover I did on Max Scherzer’s mechanics, I said that he is primarily a two-pitch (fastball/slider) pitcher and thus would be well-suited for the closer role given the fact that I am apprehensive about his chances at staying healthy as a starter. Well, I had read various scouting reports that said Scherzer has a plus-plus fastball, an average yet inconsistent slider, and a plus changeup. Based on what I saw in the games, I felt he indeed had a plus-plus fastball but combined it with an average-to-plus slider and a nonexistent changeup. Someone emailed me and reminded me that his changeup was indeed very good, and that he typically has much better command of it than his slider. So, I checked out the video from his relief appearance against the Astros, and, well…
Two words: Holy shit. I’m not one for using profane language on this open blog, but this pitch deserves it. Combine this pitch with his electric fastball that touches 98 and you have a devastating arsenal (and let’s not forget his reasonably good slider).
One Response to “Max Scherzer’s Changeup”
His changeup has great movement. Reminiscent of Pedro’s. Pitchers with a low 3/4 to sidearm slot tend to get this movement with their changeups. Huston Street’s changeup has similar movement.
By xv84 on May 7, 2008