Craig Counsell has often gone with the hot hand in late inning situations when it comes to bullpen pitching. In 2021, however, he has announced that All-Star reliever Josh Hader will have a more traditional closer role. The move comes after a 2020 season that saw Hader lead the NL in saves in the shortened season. For his part, Hader calls the role “a perfect fit.”
#Brewers manager Craig Counsell confirms that he plans to use Josh Hader more as traditional ninth-inning reliever again in 2021. Of course, it helps to have NL rookie of year Devin Williams in front of him.
— Tom (@Haudricourt) March 23, 2021
Josh Hader Adds a Consistent Changeup
One of the reasons for the decision to have a traditional closer this year is Josh Hader’s improved changeup. For years, the left-hander and coaches have said that he is working on developing the pitch to make him more unpredictable. It finally seems as if he has mastered it.
Josh Hader, Filthy Slider…and Left on Left Changeup.
Well, that's not fair. pic.twitter.com/lRl5PUE3vy
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) March 16, 2021
When Hader first broke into the Majors, it was because of his overpowering fastball. Indeed, his fastball remains an important part of his game. In fact, he once pitched an Immaculate Inning* using just his fastball. Hader eventually added a slider as well, which became an effective strikeout pitch against right-handed batters.
*Note- An Immaculate Inning is an inning in which the pitcher throws nine pitches, and strikes out all three batters he faces on three pitches each.
However, the flame-throwing left has long believed he needed another pitch. For a few seasons, Hader has toyed with a changeup. This pitch was rarely used in games, though, as he was not comfortable with it yet. This spring seems to be different, and Hader has thrown his changeup for strikes particularly against left-handed batters.
With three pitches that Hader can use to induce misses, the rest of the National League is in trouble.
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