Ben Sheets K Rate - ignore

[Doughhead]

So far in 2007:

Game 1: 3 Ks in 9 IP
Game 2: 3 Ks in 6 IP
Game 3: 2 Ks in 5 IP
Game 4: 4 Ks in 7 IP
Game 5: 1 K in 3 IP (injury shortened)
Game 6: 3 Ks in 6 IP

Total: 16 Ks in 36 IP or 4.0 K/9.

His K/9 the past three years...

2006: 9.85
2005: 8.10
2004: 10.03

Sheets has been underwhelming in general, but his K numbers have been particularly disappointing. We're six games in and he's yet to punch out more than 4 in any of his starts. Last year, he struck out 4 or fewer batters in only 2 of his 17 starts--one of those starts he lasted only 1 inning before leaving because of injury. In the other, he left with one out in the third after giving up 7 runs to Houston (he then went on the DL immediately after the start).

I read earlier that he was disappointed in/worried about his Ks, so it's not likely that he's making more of an effort to induce ground balls or play to contact (a la Halladay).

This trend is a bit of a concern, as so much of Sheets' value has historically been tied up in his big strikeout potential. With the exception of opening day (in which he was masterful, but still only K'd three), he's actually been pretty average. Going into the season, I assumed only injuries would prevent him from being an elite SP. What gives?

[Ender]

His fast ball was in the mid to high 90's today with multiple 97 MPH's. He just isn't throwing his curve for strikes and since he's a 3 pitch guy and the change up is by far his weakest pitch it means when the curve is off he is off.

[Yoda]

K's will come. I'm just happy that he is on the mound and still pitching well.

[Y`s Guy]

Agree with with the jedi master here. We must be happy, first, with his health.

[CBMGreatOne]

He's a quality pitcher. With age quality pitchers aim to be more efficient with their pitch count than they can be when they constantly ring up double digit strikeouts. It's unsustainable.

Eventually you have to base your game around pitching to contact if you want to have a long career. At least most guys do.

[chipper]

I think he's finally learning that by getting guys out in less pitches, he can be more valuable to his team.

Strikeouts are great, but lasting longer into games and lasting longer in the season is what it's all about.

[masterpinky0509]

I have to imagine it's just bad luck, he hasn't had his curve and fastball working at the same time. In that start when he left w/ injury, he only had 89-91 mph on the fastball. Now he's back but his command on the curve is rusty. It also doesn't help that he threw the curve less in spring training to preserve his arm.

[fantasyfiend]

if you couldn't resist good discussion about this issue is here: http://www.fantasybaseballcafe.com/foru ... p?t=280256

[Old_Style]

He's pitched 30 innings so far this year. I'm pretty sure his K/9 ratio will get a little better by the end of the year.

[fantasyfiend]

he's pitched 33.

He has a career k/9 of 7

His last 2 seasons have been ridiculous with k/9 of 10+ and 9+

I drafted him expecting a k rate well above 8.0 (at the least)

After 33 innings, it is safe to start worrying, considering his career numbers.

I've watched 2 of his starts, and it seems like he's pitching to contact and not trying to put extra strain on his arm by throwing filthy "out" pitches.