Is Jon Lester’s Command Improving?
Jon Lester is currently in a state which athletes sometimes refer to as “The Zone”. In his last 8 starts, he has averaged 2.13 walks per 9 innings. His average on the season is 3.55.
As I mentioned here, an average of 3.55 BB/9 shouldn’t really be a surprise for Jon, as he was typically in that ballpark before his health issues arose in 2006.
It’s been proven over time that pitchers can improve their control and command, as there are dozens of examples of guys who walked too many hitters early in their career and improved those numbers thereafter. Could Lester be one of those guys?
He’s making more use out of his cut fastball. He’s learning how to induce more ground balls rather than trying to pitch around hitters. We’re witnessing a guy who is making adjustments and beginning to adapt to the Major League level.
As a result, he has been one of the best pitchers in the American League this year.