#fastball

#fastball

Chapman has converted 35 of 37 save opportunities, registering a 1.22 ERA in that span. However, at 38 years old, his fastball velocity has decreased significantly.

"If I see a new sweeper grip, I almost always pick the ball up and throw it that next day. I can't get it, but I'm relentless. I'll get it one of these days. I'll get it. Or I'll get something else."

The Cubs project Giolito, 31, as more of a back-of-the-rotation starter, and the fact that he missed all of spring training and at least part of April might further temper expectations.

Javier Assad was punched in the mouth right away last night, allowing nine earned runs on 11 hits, which showcased the Cubs' pitching struggles.

Teams that look strong on paper can often perform much less impressively if even one or two key players are removed from the mix, and even the very best teams can look vulnerable with a long enough string of tough-luck injuries.

George Kirby, the Mariners' starting pitcher, has a 3.60 ERA and has averaged 6.7 innings per outing, with opponents batting .191 against him.

Kyle Schwarber's 16.9% O-swing rate this year is among the 11 lowest in MLB, indicating he rarely swings at pitches outside the strike zone.