Dodgers News: Noah Syndergaard's Decreased Velocity in First Start of Spring Not a Concern

The pitcher plans to work on his mechanics to provide the clubhouse with another talented arm.

For one of the newest members in the clubhouse, Noah Syndergaard, velocity has been a big point of focus for him this offseason. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2020, the pitcher has been working on getting back to peak performance levels. Although his velocity is still down, Syndergaard does not seem to be too bothered by it.

During his first appearance of the spring on Tuesday, the 30-year-old threw two shutout innings against the Reds with two strikeouts and one hit allowed. Most notably, Syndergaard’s fastball velocity was at 91-92 MPH and topped out at 93. 

Noah Syndergaard’s day is done. Final line in his Dodgers spring training debut:

2 IP
1 H
2 K

He also allowed a stolen base.

His fastball topped at 93 mph, and the changeup looked really sharp. https://t.co/EWJKggNgdv

— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) February 28, 2023

Syndergaard is slowly working towards his goal— and previous levels— of 100 MPH. While on the Angels and Phillies last season, the pitcher’s velocity was sitting in the mid-90s.

Following the game against the Reds, Syndergaard talked with the media at Camelback Ranch and touched upon how he felt about his velocity. Reporters asked if the 92-93 range was where he expected to be:

“No, not really, but it’s just motivation to keep on working. I’m not too worried about it, I know it’s still in there. Just the four months that you’re not throwing during your rehab, you kinda lose a little bit or kinda forget how to throw hard. To relearn how to throw hard again, it’s not the easiest thing to do.”

With it being the early stage of spring training, Syndergaard is focused on building arm strength and working on his mechanics. As he continues to remain in the lab, his velocity will surely bounce back up.