https://totallytigers.wordpress.com/2023/04/11/watercooler-wednesday-80/
WATERCOOLER WEDNESDAY.
Totally Tigers
Today, another opportunity for readers to discuss the hottest topics in a forum where thoughtful dialog and a variety of opinions are welcomed.
Let?s create some running conversational threads. And for those of you back in actual offices, here?s a question to take with you ? or use via Zoom ? as you talk to your co-workers.
Here is today?s topic??..
For multiple years now, the Detroit Tigers have failed to control the strike zone, leading them to sit at the bottom of most offensive categories. Last year, they set a record for lowest offense.
PoBO Scott Harris said that controlling the strike zone ? on both sides of the plate ? is the priority. Teams with hitters who do that best score more runs and get to play October baseball.
In the Tigers first 9 games of this year, they have MLB?s 3rd highest strikeout rate (26.9%), 5th lowest walk rate (7.4%), 5th highest chase rate (32.4%) and the sixth-lowest contact rate (73.5%).
The team hired Anthony Iapoce, a well-known hitting guru to take over AAA Toledo and instill a more disciplined hitting strategy with their prospects. They also hired well-known hitting coaches for the MLB level.
But it does take time for coaches to get to know players and figure out how to best advise them. And the learning process is not linear. It takes awhile for players to practice at a level where new techniques come more easily and consistently.
But how much change can Detroit?s new coaches inspire? Do results come mainly from coaching or from talent? Or is it a bit of both?
Currently, we are seeing very little proof that Detroit?s hitters have changed their approach at the plate. Is it too early?
Will it take longer? Or is this something that is too hard to change?
When do you believe we will start to see fewer strikeouts, more walks and a lower chase rate?
When do you believe we will start to see improvement in controlling the strike zone?
1. 1-2 months.
2. Second half of the season.
3. Not with this current group of players.
VOTE
