Inside the Astros

For One Houston Astros Pitcher, the Pitch Clock Could Pose a Significant Issue

The Houston Astros have multiple pitchers who may find trouble with the new pitch clock. But one in particular could have a significant issue.

Andy Jasner

For One Houston Astros Pitcher, the Pitch Clock Could Pose a Significant Issue
For One Houston Astros Pitcher, the Pitch Clock Could Pose a Significant Issue /
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The newly-installed pitch clock will likely be an issue for a number of players this season.

Especially Houston Astros closer Ryan Pressly.

According to Baseball Savant, Pressly averaged 23.7 seconds between pitches with the bases empty last season. Only five American League pitchers took longer to reach home plate.

“I’m old school. I’m not a big fan of it, but I don’t make the rules apparently,” Pressly told reporters at spring training. “I can go quicker if I really wanted to, but if I’m on the mound, why do I need to go quicker if I don’t have to? But now that we have to, I can go quicker. I’m not a fan of it.”

Baseball Savant measures the time between the release of two pitches. The new rules require pitchers to start their motion before a clock expires. They have 15 seconds with the bases empty and 20 seconds with runners on base.

“I think every pitcher is taught to be on your own tempo, be controlled, breathe and slow the game down” Pressly said. “Now the pitch clock is going to affect that a little bit, but we’re all big leaguers. We can make an adjustment.”

Pressly went 3-3 with a 2.98 ERA and 33 saves last season. He tossed 11 shutout innings with six saves in the postseason.

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Andy Jasner
ANDY JASNER

Andy Jasner is a freelance writer based in the Philadelphia area. Jasner graduated from Syracuse University in 1991 and has worked for newspapers, magazines and websites including CBS SportsLine and ESPN.com. Jasner has written two books -- Baltimore Ravens and Phil Jasner: On The Case. Follow him on Twitter at @AndyJasner.

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