The Twins invade the nation’s capitol as Kyle Gibson takes on the Nationals and Gio Gonzalez. Twins pitchers are known for their low walk rates, and Gibson over his career does well in that category. So far in 2016, however, he walked 10 and struck out 10 in 17 2/3 innings. Those two rates continuing would be a formula for disaster. Gonzalez made just two start so far, but the way he is pitching he should move up in the rotation. He allowed just seven hits and one run in 13 innings while striking out 12.
Oakland continues their eastern swing with a trip to Toronto as Sonny Gray faces Aaron Sanchez. Gray makes his first road start of the season after posting a 2.33 ERA in three Oakland adventures. Gray owns a great career record on the road, 16-8 with a 2.70 ERA. With 20 K in 20 innings, Sanchez limited the opposition to just ten hits, although two of those left the park.
Two 10-6 teams battle in Chicago as Martin Perez leads the Rangers against Jose Quintana and the White Sox. Perez owns a good ERA in three starts despite wildness. He’s walked 11 and struck out just nine batters in 18 1/3 innings. With just three walks allowed this season, Quintana held the opposition to a .292 OBP so far.
The Pirates move a bit east on their western swing as Jonathon Niese battles Patrick Corbin and the Diamondbacks. Niese is pitching nicely for the Pirates after eight seasons with the Mets. He held opponents to a .197 BA so far, but six of the thirteen hits against him went for extra bases. Corbin allowed three home runs in just 19 2/3 innings, but has not allowed a hit with runners in scoring position this season.
Finally, Felix Hernandez and Nick Tropeano headline the Mariners at the Angels. With 13 walks in 18 innings, Hernandez is uncharacteristically wild this season. So far the walks have not hurt much. He has yet to allow a home run, and just nine hits in total. He held opponents 1 for 21 with six walks with men in scoring position. It seems he’s picking his battles. Tropeano appears to be employing the same strategy, as opponents are 1 for 11 against him with men in scoring position with two walks.
Enjoy!