2012 Rockies Game #99: Johnny Cueto vs. Christian Friedrich

Christian Friedrich's splits thus far in 2012 have shown a pitcher that would be okay the first time through a lineup as long as he avoids giving up the long ball, pretty terrible the second time through once hitters adjust, but much better the third time around when given a chance. In this regard he might be getting harmed statistically by the Rockies four man rotation and 75 pitch limit, as it's preventing him from making the adjustments to MLB hitters that make him more effective. Theoretically, he should be able to make these adjustments anyway eventually and be better the second time through lineups, as he should know to expect the pitches he displayed the first go round will get hammered the second, but we haven't seen that yet. In the meantime, almost as soon as he has settled into an effective rhythm, his outings get cut off by the pitch limit.

What I've been looking for from him in 2012 has been an ability to preempt the adjustments opposing hitters have been making the second time through by changing location and pitch sequences, but for the most part he's been pretty consistent until after the damage has already been done. Tonight, facing off against one of the best pitchers in the NL the last couple of seasons would be a good time to change that pattern if the Rockies expect to to win.

GO ROCKIES!