Atlanta Braves infielder Whit Merrifield made news this week after being struck in the head by Colorado Rockies pitcher Jeff Criswell. Merrifield was taken out of the game and evaluated for a concussion, which he fortunately did not have.
Following the game, Merrifield expressed his concerns about the current state of pitching in MLB. He specifically criticized the emphasis on velocity, which he believes often compromises pitchers’ control.
“The way the game is right now, it’s just absurd,” Merrifield stated. “I really dislike the direction it’s heading with that.”
Whit Merrifield was right to criticize MLB’s pitching philosophy
Merrifield continued by stating that his “life was on the line,” while highlighting how many Braves hitters have been injured this season due to hit-by-pitches.
“We lost Riley, we almost lost Mike, we almost lost d’Arnaud in just two or three weeks,” Merrifield said. “The way pitchers are throwing now, they have no regard for pitching up and in. They’re throwing as hard as they can, and they don’t care where the ball ends up. And it’s just … it’s bulls—-.”
Merrifield raises a valid point, emphasizing that pitchers have prioritized velocity over control. While it’s difficult to place the full blame on pitchers, this issue stems from early development. From a young age, pitchers are taught that speed is crucial, leading some to focus on increasing pitch velocity with little attention to other aspects of the game.
Whit Merrifield’s injury update is more frightening than it seems for Braves
Merrifield is reportedly considered day-to-day, according to the Braves’ training staff. However, subtle updates on the team’s official website suggest the situation might be more complex.
“He passed concussion tests, but was still feeling groggy when he arrived at Truist Park on Wednesday afternoon. He also continues to experience discomfort whenever he wears a hat. Braves manager Brian Snitker stated Merrifield is day to day.”
Last season, MLB teams were given a stark reminder about the seriousness of concussions when Anthony Rizzo was placed on the injured list two months after suffering a head injury against the Padres. The Yankees initially diagnosed it as a stiff neck, but Rizzo was shut down for the season last August after significant struggles at the plate.
Unlike the Yankees’ handling of Rizzo, the Braves should exercise caution with Merrifield, particularly given the symptoms he is still experiencing.
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