The 2024 MLB season has given us some incredible performances on the mound, setting the stage for even more excitement in 2025. With some rising stars and a few established aces continuing to dominate, baseball fans are in for an exciting year of pitching excellence. Let’s dive into the top pitchers of 2024 to watch as we move into 2025, focusing on their impressive statistics and what makes them players to keep an eye on.
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1. Tarik Skubal (Detroit Tigers)
2024 Stats:
- Record: 18-4
- ERA: 2.39
- Innings: 192.0
- Strikeouts: 228
- WHIP: 0.92
- Opposing Batting Average: .201
Tarik Skubal has emerged as one of the premier left-handed pitchers in baseball. With a stellar 2.39 ERA and an impressive strikeout total of 228 in 192 innings, he proved that his breakout 2023 was no fluke. His pinpoint control, low WHIP, and ability to limit hits make him a top candidate for a potential Cy Young award in the coming years. Skubal’s dominance on the mound makes him one of the top pitchers to watch in 2025 as he looks to continue his upward trajectory.
2. Chris Sale (Atlanta Braves)
2024 Stats:
- Record: 18-3
- ERA: 2.38
- Innings: 177.2
- Strikeouts: 225
- WHIP: 1.01
- Opposing Batting Average: .216
Chris Sale, the flamethrower for the Atlanta Braves, has bounced back in a big way in 2024. With a 2.38 ERA and 225 strikeouts, Sale has shown that despite his injury history, he remains one of the most dangerous pitchers in the game. His ability to overpower hitters with his fastball and off-speed pitches makes him a key player for the Braves and a must-watch in 2025.
3. Dylan Cease (San Diego Padres)
2024 Stats:
- Record: 14-11
- ERA: 3.47
- Innings: 189.1
- Strikeouts: 224
- WHIP: 1.07
- Opposing Batting Average: .200
Dylan Cease has quietly become one of the most consistent pitchers in the league. With 224 strikeouts in 189.1 innings, he continues to show his ability to rack up K’s while keeping the ball in the park. Cease’s dominance and consistency should allow him to be one of the top pitchers to follow as the Padres aim to make a deep postseason run in 2025.
4. Zack Wheeler (Philadelphia Phillies)
2024 Stats:
- Record: 16-7
- ERA: 2.57
- Innings: 200.0
- Strikeouts: 224
- WHIP: 0.96
- Opposing Batting Average: .192
Zack Wheeler has been an anchor for the Phillies’ rotation, and his 2.57 ERA in 2024 is a testament to his elite ability. With 224 strikeouts and a sub-1.00 WHIP, Wheeler’s fastball-slider combination continues to dominate opposing hitters. At 32 years old, he is still in his prime and will be a key player for Philadelphia’s chances in 2025.
5. Cole Ragans (Kansas City Royals)
2024 Stats:
- Record: 11-9
- ERA: 3.14
- Innings: 186.1
- Strikeouts: 223
- WHIP: 1.14
- Opposing Batting Average: .213
Cole Ragans is quickly gaining recognition as one of the top young pitchers in the game. With a 3.14 ERA and 223 strikeouts over 186.1 innings in 2024, Ragans has established himself as a reliable arm for the Kansas City Royals. His ability to get swing-and-miss stuff will make him a pitcher to watch in 2025 as he continues to develop.
6. Logan Gilbert (Seattle Mariners)
2024 Stats:
- Record: 9-12
- ERA: 3.23
- Innings: 208.2
- Strikeouts: 220
- WHIP: 0.89
- Opposing Batting Average: .196
Logan Gilbert may not have the win-loss record to match his potential, but his 3.23 ERA and impressive 220 strikeouts over 208.2 innings show he has elite stuff. His ability to limit walks and keep batters from getting too comfortable at the plate makes him a key part of the Mariners’ pitching staff moving forward into 2025.
7. Garrett Crochet (Chicago White Sox)
2024 Stats:
- Record: 6-12
- ERA: 3.58
- Innings: 146.0
- Strikeouts: 209
- WHIP: 1.07
- Opposing Batting Average: .222
Garrett Crochet has had an up-and-down career, but his 2024 season has been a positive step forward. With 209 strikeouts in 146 innings, he has the potential to be a dominant force in the future. If he can continue to refine his control, Crochet could emerge as one of the most exciting pitchers in 2025.
8. Yusei Kikuchi (Houston Astros)
2024 Stats:
- Record: 9-10
- ERA: 4.05
- Innings: 175.2
- Strikeouts: 206
- WHIP: 1.20
- Opposing Batting Average: .245
Yusei Kikuchi has become a steady presence in the Astros' rotation. While his ERA of 4.05 isn’t elite, his strikeout numbers and ability to pitch deep into games make him a player to watch in 2025. As he continues to adjust to MLB hitters, Kikuchi has the tools to become even more dominant.
9. Sonny Gray (St. Louis Cardinals)
2024 Stats:
- Record: 13-9
- ERA: 3.84
- Innings: 166.1
- Strikeouts: 203
- WHIP: 1.09
- Opposing Batting Average: .228
Sonny Gray has been one of the more consistent pitchers in the league, and his 2024 performance has further solidified his status. With 203 strikeouts and a 3.84 ERA, Gray continues to be an anchor for the St. Louis Cardinals’ pitching staff. He’s a solid choice for those looking to follow an established veteran in 2025.
10. Michael King (San Diego Padres)
2024 Stats:
- Record: 13-9
- ERA: 2.95
- Innings: 173.2
- Strikeouts: 201
- WHIP: 1.19
- Opposing Batting Average: .221
Michael King has proven himself as a reliable starter for the Padres, posting a 2.95 ERA and striking out 201 batters in just 173.2 innings in 2024. His ability to miss bats and keep his ERA under 3.00 makes him a pitcher to keep an eye on in 2025.
11. Freddy Peralta (Milwaukee Brewers)
2024 Stats:
- Record: 11-9
- ERA: 3.68
- Innings: 173.2
- Strikeouts: 200
- WHIP: 1.21
- Opposing Batting Average: .224
Freddy Peralta has been one of the most consistent strikeout artists in the game. With 200 strikeouts in 173.2 innings, he continues to thrive as a high-strikeout, low-walk pitcher. As he refines his control even further, Peralta could make a big leap in 2025.
12. Pablo López (Minnesota Twins)
2024 Stats:
- Record: 15-10
- ERA: 4.08
- Innings: 185.1
- Strikeouts: 198
- WHIP: 1.19
- Opposing Batting Average: .252
Pablo López has been a consistent performer for the Minnesota Twins. While his ERA sits at 4.08, his strikeout ability (198 in 185.1 innings) and durability make him a key player for the Twins in 2025. If he can lower his ERA, López has the potential to be an elite arm.
When it comes to baseball, pitchers are often seen as the backbone of a team. Their performance can make or break a game, and mastering the art of pitching requires not just talent, but a deep understanding of the game, its rules, and how to strategize effectively. This article will explore the fundamentals of pitching, essential rules every pitcher should be aware of in Major League Baseball (MLB), and tips for betting on FanDuel in 2025.
The Fundamentals of Pitching: What Every Pitcher Should Know
Pitching is much more than just throwing a ball toward a batter. It’s a complex art that combines technique, strategy, and mental toughness. Here are the core fundamentals every pitcher should master:
1. Grip and Release
The grip you use for different pitches plays a crucial role in the movement and speed of the ball. Common pitch types include:
- Fastball: The basic pitch with speed. The two most common fastballs are the four-seam and two-seam fastball, with the former being straighter and the latter moving slightly.
- Curveball: A pitch that has a significant downward and lateral movement, generated by a tight grip and wrist action.
- Slider: Similar to a curveball, but with a sharper, more lateral break.
- Changeup: A slower pitch that looks like a fastball but arrives slower, designed to disrupt the batter’s timing.
A solid pitcher must learn to master different grips for these pitches to keep batters guessing.
2. Delivery and Mechanics
Pitching mechanics refer to the movements made from the windup or stretch to the release of the ball. Proper mechanics are essential for velocity, control, and avoiding injuries. A few key components to focus on include:
- Leg Lift: The height of the leg lift can vary depending on the pitcher’s style, but a consistent, controlled lift helps maintain balance and rhythm.
- Stride: A pitcher’s stride determines the distance the ball travels. A long, powerful stride is key to generating velocity.
- Follow-Through: This is essential for avoiding injuries, particularly to the shoulder and elbow. A smooth follow-through can help a pitcher stay balanced.
3. Mental Toughness and Strategy
Pitching is a mental game. It’s not just about throwing strikes—it’s about outsmarting the batter. Understanding a batter’s tendencies and adapting accordingly is vital. A pitcher’s ability to stay calm under pressure, especially in high-stakes situations, sets great pitchers apart from good ones.
4. Pitching Sequences
Pitchers rarely just throw a fastball or curveball without considering the context of the game. They must use a mix of pitches to keep batters off balance. For instance, a pitcher may throw a fastball inside to set up a slider on the outside corner. The key is unpredictability and the ability to read the batter’s strengths and weaknesses.
MLB Rules Every Pitcher Should Know
As an MLB pitcher, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the rules of the game. While most players and fans understand the basics, pitchers are often impacted by certain rules that are specific to their role. Here are a few key rules every pitcher should keep in mind:
1. Pitch Clock
Introduced in 2023, the pitch clock limits the time between pitches to 15 seconds with the bases empty and 20 seconds with runners on base. A violation results in an automatic ball being called. This rule forces pitchers to maintain a consistent tempo and prevents them from taking too long to deliver a pitch.
2. Substitution Rules
A pitcher is generally allowed to stay in the game unless removed for a pinch hitter or substituted due to injury. However, teams must follow specific rules regarding pitching changes. For instance, the three-batter minimum rule, which mandates that a pitcher must face at least three batters or finish the half-inning unless removed for injury, is important for teams to consider in late-game strategies.
3. Illegal Pitches and Pitching Substance Rules
MLB has strict regulations concerning foreign substances on a pitcher’s hand or glove. Using substances like pine tar or rosin in excess or inappropriately can lead to ejections or suspensions. Likewise, any illegal pitching motions, such as balks, are penalized by awarding the batter or baserunner a free base.
4. Balk Rule
A balk occurs when the pitcher makes an illegal motion while on the pitching rubber with a runner on base. If a pitcher commits a balk, the batter is not penalized, but the base runners are allowed to advance. The most common balks involve a pitcher’s failure to come to a complete stop before delivering the ball or stepping off the rubber improperly.
5. The 60-Feet-6-Inch Rule
The distance between the pitcher’s mound and the batter’s box is set at 60 feet 6 inches, a critical distance for pitchers to perfect their craft. While this distance is fixed, pitchers’ performance is often enhanced or diminished based on the mound’s conditions, such as elevation or wear.
Tips for Betting on FanDuel in 2025: Understanding Pitching Trends
Betting on FanDuel can be an exciting way to engage with baseball, especially when you understand how pitching affects the game’s outcome. If you’re planning to place bets on MLB games in 2025, consider these tips:
1. Evaluate Starting Pitchers
The starting pitcher is one of the most critical factors in any MLB game. Review a pitcher’s recent performance, including their ERA (earned run average), WHIP (walks plus hits per inning pitched), and strikeouts per 9 innings. A hot pitcher with a good track record often tips the scale in favor of their team.
2. Consider Bullpen Strength
While the starting pitcher sets the tone, the bullpen can be just as crucial. Check how well the bullpen has been performing, particularly in late innings. A strong bullpen can make a huge difference in close games, especially in high-pressure situations.
3. Look for Pitching Matchup Disadvantages
Examine how a particular pitcher performs against certain teams or batters. For instance, if a pitcher struggles with left-handed hitters but faces a predominantly right-handed lineup, it could give the opposing team an edge. Pitching matchups often give insights into potential underdogs or blowout situations.
4. Weather Conditions
Weather plays a vital role in baseball. Wind, humidity, and temperature can affect how the ball travels, which in turn impacts pitching performance. Strong winds can make pitchers' fastballs less effective, while humid conditions might make the ball harder to grip. Be sure to check the weather forecast for each game before placing bets.
5. Look for the "K" Factor
Strikeouts are often the deciding factor in a game. If you’re betting on prop markets like “Over/Under strikeouts,” track pitchers who consistently rack up Ks or those who tend to give up fewer strikeouts. Pitchers with high strikeout rates are often safer bets, particularly when facing swing-heavy teams.
Conclusion
Pitching is one of the most complex and crucial aspects of baseball, and understanding its fundamentals can give players a competitive edge on the field. For bettors, knowing the MLB rules and how pitching performances influence game outcomes can make all the difference when placing wagers on platforms like FanDuel. By keeping track of pitcher stats, weather conditions, and matchups, you can make more informed and strategic betting decisions in 2025.
Remember, pitching isn’t just about raw power—it’s about control, strategy, and mental toughness. Whether you’re on the mound or placing a bet, understanding the fundamentals is key to success.
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