Looking At Ian Kennedy

Ian Kennedy has faced 95 batters so far this season.

In 11 of those 95 PA, the batter has hit the first pitch.
In those situations, he’s allowed a BA/OBP/SLG line of .500/.400/.625.
(Why is the BA higher than the OBP? There’s one SAC and two SF’s allowed in those 11 PA.)

In 16 of those 95 PA, he’s been able to work a 1-2 count.
In those situations, he’s allowed a BA/OBP/SLG line of .188/.188/.250 - and whiffed 7 of 16.

In 24 of those 95 PA, he’s allowed the count to go 3-2.
In those situations, he’s allowed a BA/OBP/SLG line of .385/.667/.538.
(He’s also walked 4 batters this season, to date, after reaching a 3-1 count on them.)

What does this tell us? Kennedy’s too worried about getting that first pitch strike and making that full-count pitch - and the result has been some very hittable pitches in those spots. But, when the count is in his favor, he’s able to get hitters to chase.

It seems, at least to me, that, if Kennedy is able to start making quality pitches on his first offering, and, if, he’s able to avoid falling into 3-ball counts, he should be a better pitcher. Then again, that’s just the secret to good pitching, isn’t it?

May 1, 2008 | Filed Under Math Class

Comments

4 Responses to “Looking At Ian Kennedy”

antone on May 1st, 2008 3:10 pm

Just curious but how do Hughes’ numbers look in the same situations?
Steve Lombardi on May 1st, 2008 3:34 pm

I’d tell you - but then people would say that I’m always picking on Hughes.
baileywalk on May 1st, 2008 4:08 pm

If you’re really curious and have the time, you can find the info on Baseball Reference, antone.
antone on May 1st, 2008 4:25 pm

I don’t have time, I’m at work haha

Steve-I know…I was afraid to ask!