Pitching Analysis
Detailed breakdowns of pitching performances, including start-by-start reviews and pitcher development. From rotation mainstays to bullpen arms, this is where we dig into the numbers, mechanics, and results on the mound.
Maya Steady, Gee Whiz
Yunesky Maya is an acquired taste: after a rocky first inning in which Mets first baseman Ike Davis hit one of the longest home runs in the short history of Nationals Park, the highly touted Cuban righthander settled down and pitched steadily through the 5th. Maya gave up three runs in the first and one in the second, but recovered to show the command that earned him a four-year, $6 million contract in July.
Two Of Three From The Ahoys
Jason Marquis turned in six solid innings as the Nationals took the road series against the Pittsburgh Pirates, 8–1. Ryan Zimmerman drove in four runs and Adam Dunn added a home run in the decisive victory.
Zimmermann Gem, But Nats Fall
Jordan Zimmermann delivered a strong outing but the Nationals couldn't muster enough offense to back him up. Zimmermann's line reflected the kind of efficiency that made him a cornerstone of the rotation.
Lannan Masters St. Louis
John Lannan turned in a commanding performance against the Cardinals, keeping St. Louis hitters off balance with a mix of sinkers and changeups. The outing underscored Lannan's value as a reliable left-handed starter.
Tommy John … And Stephen Strasburg
A look at the history of Tommy John surgery and its implications for Stephen Strasburg, whose electric debut season was cut short. The piece examines recovery timelines and what the procedure has meant for pitchers across generations.
Nats Embarrassed By Cubs, 9–1
A rough day for the Nationals pitching staff as the Cubs piled on nine runs. The bullpen struggled to contain the damage after an early exit by the starter.
Birds Of Prey vs. Crippled Sparrows
A matchup analysis examining how a depleted Nationals pitching staff fared against a formidable opponent. The piece highlights the resilience of the arms that took the mound despite injuries and roster limitations.
Key Pitchers Covered
- Jordan Zimmermann — Start-by-start breakdowns, strikeout-to-walk ratios, and his emergence as a rotation anchor.
- Jason Marquis — Veteran presence and ground-ball approach; recaps of his strongest outings in a Nationals uniform.
- John Lannan — Left-handed consistency and his ability to work deep into games.
- Yunesky Maya — The Cuban right-hander's transition to the majors and his development arc.
- Stephen Strasburg — Coverage of his debut, injury, and the road to recovery.