STARTERS: Fastball velocity and Dominance rate
May 12 2013
It seems intuitive that an increase in fastball velocity would lead to more strikeouts when it comes to starting pitchers.
In fact, we cite fastball velocity increases as a good thing without thinking twice about it.
Conversely, a decline in fastball velocity commonly is used as a reason for concern.
Before accepting these conclusions as truths, let's analyze the historical link between fastball velocity and Dominance (K/9) rate.
Here is a scatter plot showing the relationship between those two variables over the past four seasons among starting pitchers (min 40 IP).
- There is a positive correlation between fastball velocity and Dom, but it's not as strong as you might think. Its correlation coefficient of r = 0.41 suggests a...
Almost!
You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!
Already a subscriber? Sign in here
More From Starting Pitchers
Jack Flaherty's inconsistency can be traced to some deep struggles after he goes through a lineup once during a game.
Jun 28 2025 3:05am
Jun 28 2025 3:05am
Bryce Elder's marginal overall skills are hiding some impactful components when he pitches with the bases empty.
Jun 21 2025 3:10am
Jun 21 2025 3:10am
Max Meyer has looked like two different pitchers during his home and road starts.
Jun 14 2025 3:05am
Jun 14 2025 3:05am
Sandy Alcantara's rough post-injury stats have been driven by some deep struggles against lefty bats.
Jun 7 2025 3:05am
Jun 7 2025 3:05am
Ben Brown's ugly surface stats in May hid some excellent underlying skills.
May 31 2025 3:09am
May 31 2025 3:09am
