~~~We need a win every day~~~

Actually, it’s a win needed every 7 out of 10 days where there’s a game. But, yes, Hughes has to be able to help make that happen too.

Hughes has sat 91-94 mph throughout his MiLB career, so I can’t see how you could that him getting back up there is not ever going to happen.

Hughes isn’t finding that velocity now, and when that happens to a pitcher it’s either the result of not enough strength/conditioning (legs, back, core AND arm), messed up mechanics, injury, or because he’s too damn old. Carlos Gomez has made some observations about Hughes mechanics, and it also stands to reason that he’s not in top shape because of all the time off. The lack of velocity is just a symptom.

Either way, the more troubling thing, I think, is Hughes decreased control. Don’t get hung up on velocity – Hughes isn’t going to magically be putting up quality starts if he starts hitting 94 on the gun. I don’t know how many times it needs to be said, but there are plenty of guys who can’t get people out who throw 96+ (Jaret Wright is a good example) and plenty of guys who sit 89-91 and are fine.

Whatever Hughes’ problem, I sure hope it gets fixed soon. We need a win every day .

I still think too much is being made of his velocity.

I am curious to see what Casman means by “He’s not coming at hitters with his full ability yet.”

I can’t wait to see the reaction to this one, Steve, as Hughes is such a heated topic in Yankeeland.

My question would be how much his injury is affecting him. Not that he’s not over it, but that it again has limited his innings and not allowed for a full, uninterrupted season. Certainly, that would affect his stamina, and if he’s worried about that, perhaps he’s dialing down the fastball a MPH or two in an attempt to conserve.

Just a thought, and I don’t have any data to back it up, but I thought I’d share.