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Sheehan Overcomes Velocity Drop for First Win
4 Apr
Summary
- Sheehan secured his first win despite reduced fastball velocity.
- Mechanical adjustments helped Sheehan regain pitching rhythm.
- He pitched 5 2/3 innings, allowing four runs in the victory.
Emmet Sheehan secured his first win of the season in a 13-6 victory for the Dodgers, demonstrating effectiveness despite a decrease in his fastball velocity. Sheehan's fastball averaged 93.8 mph, a drop from his 95.6 mph average last season, but he believes mechanical adjustments are the cause, not health concerns. He pitched 5 2/3 innings, allowing four runs, with key support from the Dodgers' offense.
Despite a challenging start that included a three-run home run in the first inning, Sheehan improved as the game progressed. His velocity fluctuations saw a dip then a rise throughout the innings, with his average fastball velocity ranging from 94.5 mph in the first and sixth innings to a low of 92.6 mph in the third.
Manager Dave Roberts noted Sheehan's ability to provide necessary length, an important factor for the team's rotation. Sheehan expressed satisfaction with his mechanical tweaks, aiming to maintain his rhythm. The Dodgers anticipate Sheehan being a key contributor, emphasizing that his command and pitch sequencing are as crucial as his velocity.
