Will’s Cardio Column
You’re probably wondering, what is this? Let me explain, as summer approaches and I’ve become increasingly lazier since the new year kicked off in the gym, I’ve entered a new hyper-fixation on doing the “75 Hard” challenge. With that comes the painful reality I must do cardio daily. So while I do, I’ll be writing a column as to not descend into madness.
Jack Leiter got called up yesterday to start today against the Tigers (yikes). Despite the fact he is one of my all-time favorite college pitchers from his days at Vandy, I was really excited to watch him throw today. Man he got touched up. I’ve been wondering when his time would be, and after 4 years in the minors, I’m starting to draw the conclusion he may not be ready. Something I’d never thought I’d say with his tools and arsenal. Sure his first start was on the road against a red hot Tigers team, and Adolis Garcia didn’t help him at all with the glove. Hoping the tide turns for the young righty.
Reid Detmers has been an absolute freak. Typically his issues stem from the fact he can’t pitch on the road, not the case this year. 3-0, 30/7 K/BB, 1.19 ERA with a 0.97 WHIP over his first 22.2 innings. The strikeout stuff has always been there, but it’s all coming together with leaving runners on, scattering hits, and not allowing hard contact. Obviously a sub-2 ERA isn’t sustainable in this league, but it’s great to see him off to a great start.
Quinn Priester was just called up to start against the Red Sox tomorrow. I think Priester has great tools and is a highly touted prospect, but I have beef with this. Mainly because it leaves Paul Skenes in AAA. Are the Pirates selfishly keeping him down to keep his MLB clock from starting? Maybe. But he’s about as much of a “generational talent” as you see in the sport, and as a fan, I selfishly want him up. I don’t want hear about workload management or other propaganda. This kid threw 100+ pitches every Friday night at LSU less than a year ago, he’s ready. Somebody get on the phone and round out this Pirates rotation with Jones and Skenes and sail the high seas.
