There are numerous methods to assess starting pitchers, and by most metrics, Blake Snell had an exceptional 2023 MLB season. Despite some shortcomings, such as leading the Majors in walks, Snell’s performance was otherwise outstanding.
He won the National League Cy Young Award and topped the Majors in ERA, ERA+, and batting average against. He also excelled in advanced metrics, with his breaking balls and changeup ranking among the game’s best pitches, along with above-average velocity.
Despite leading in walks, which is typically undesirable, Snell’s approach differed from the Giants’ norm. The Giants had the best walk rate in the Majors as a team, but they valued Snell’s ability to dominate in his unique way. For Snell, being comfortable with walks may have been the key to his success.
He focused more on his overall performance and helping the team win rather than fixating on walks, which he realized were just opinions and not reflective of his true abilities as a pitcher.
Despite the high walk rate, Snell excelled in stranding runners, leading all MLB pitchers by stranding 87 percent of baserunners. This ability to limit damage after allowing walks or hits contributed to his overall effectiveness on the mound.
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