Simon: Which MLB pitchers are getting the best defensive support?

From SABR member Mark Simon at The Athletic on June 13, 2018:

Michael Wacha’s success this season​ can​ be attributed to​ many factors,​ most of which​ are​ his​​ own doing, some of which have been documented in this space.

But let’s not forget the work put in by his defense and by the coaching staff to ensure that the defense can make plays like this one.

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In sum, the Cardinals’ defense behind Wacha has been terrific, helping keep his ERA to 2.47. They have totaled 18 Defensive Runs Saved from both shifts and non-shifted alignments (specifically making plays on batted balls).

By that measure, that’s the most support that any pitcher has gotten from his defense this season. The defensive success has been a combination of players being in the right spot to make plays and the players actually making those good plays.

Read the full article here (subscription required): https://theathletic.com/392319/2018/06/13/which-mlb-pitchers-are-getting-the-best-defensive-support/



Originally published: June 15, 2018. Last Updated: June 15, 2018.