Matt Blake, the Yankees pitching coach, faced a unique challenge with reliever Devin Williams, who was struggling early in the season. By temporarily removing Williams from his closer role, Blake allowed him to regain confidence in a less tense environment. The coaching staff emphasized the need for Williams to be more aggressive with both his fastball and changeup, which resulted in significant improvements. Carlos Rodón has also shown a resurgence this season, adapting to a five-pitch arsenal after initially relying on just two pitches, and he's currently ranked among the best AL starters despite a recent game setback.
"It was shocking to everybody... Everybody was trying to figure out what was going on here and what are we missing? He's not getting the swing-and-miss..."
"The key might have been as simple as temporarily removing him from the closer role, allowing him a lower pressure environment..."
"Rodón remains among the top-ten of qualified AL starters in ERA (2.87), FIP (3.27), xERA (2.68), innings (84.2), strikeout rate (31%)..."
"Credit belongs to a philosophical shift from a two-pitch pitcher to one unafraid to use his full five-pitch arsenal in unexpected counts and locations..."
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