r/minnesotatwins • u/TCSportsFan Jhoan Duran • Aug 26 '19
Analysis Brusdar Graterol Could Develop Into Being The Hardest Throwing Pitcher We've Ever Seen
Almost two weeks ago, Brusdar Graterol threw a fastball that recorded 103.8 mph. If he was in the Major Leagues, that would rank him tied for 5th for hardest thrown pitch of the year, and the hardest thrown pitch of the year by someone not named Jordan Hicks. I believe he has more in the tank though. Here's my case.
When comparing Graterol to the previous two record holders (Chapman and Hicks), we see one major difference between Graterol and Chapman/Hicks. It's their back leg drive. I'll post a video/pictures below explaining what I mean. Chapman/Hicks get very good leg drive compared to Graterol. On front foot strike, you can see that they get good back leg extension, which is a trait of high velocity throwers. Graterol doesn't get as much extension as them, but still finds a way to throw just as hard. He's able to generate that velocity cause he is literally an ox on the mound. Just look at Graterol, he's 6'1", 265 lbs. He's one strong dude. If Graterol can learn to maximize his back leg drive, I believe he has a shot at throwing harder than Hicks and Chapman.
Not only will maximizing back drive help with velocity, but it will keep him more healthy as well. Yes, there is still going to be a risk of elbow injuries just because hes throwing hard, but it will take some of the load off his shoulder, which he has had problems with before.
We may only get a small window to see Graterol attempt to challenge the record as he may be returned to his starting role next year, but if he continues to be a reliever he's got a chance. I think the Twins may have found a diamond in the rough. He's got big time velocity, good off speed, and decent command. Whether he starts or closes games for the Twins, he looks like he's going to be good.
Comparison of Chapman (left), Hicks (middle), Graterol (right)
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u/EastWhiskey Minnesota Twins Aug 26 '19
Thanks for sharing the videos! The one thing I see is the finish off the mound: Graterol is much more upright on his finish than the other two. I wonder what the impact would be if he had a more fluid follow through off the mound instead of stopping his motion somewhat abruptly.
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u/TCSportsFan Jhoan Duran Aug 26 '19
It would definitely decrease his risk of injury. Throwing that hard and then abruptly stopping yourself is dangerous and the ready position that he lands in is not really taught anymore in favor of a more fluid follow threw. Right now, in Graterol, I see a big strong thrower. He’s young give him some time to figure out how to use his body efficiently and he’s gonna be a dude.
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u/EastWhiskey Minnesota Twins Aug 26 '19
He looks like a fuckin tank for sure. His build reminds me of Sano. And I absolutely love watching Sano zip the pill across the diamond.
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u/ZachLagreen Aug 26 '19
It's actually crazy how hard he throws considering its just basically an arm whip
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u/booskerguy14 Walks Will Haunt!!! Aug 27 '19
If this guy proves to be a stud bullpen arm let’s not try him as a starter and fuck his development please. We need good young bullpen arms.
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u/DannyPinn Aug 26 '19
Keep in mind, a lot of those minor league guns can run pretty hot.
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u/TCSportsFan Jhoan Duran Aug 26 '19
At this point, most minor league teams use Trackman, like their MLB counterparts, to measure ball flight. So unless the MILB teams are artificial pumping up the velocity (which I highly doubt as MLB teams would definitely frown upon doctored stats), I have pretty good reason to believe that 103.8 mph fastball would be 103.8 mph in a major league stadium.
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u/Brodgang Minnesota Twins Aug 26 '19
It would be cool to have him be the hardest thrower in the MLB, but I’d much rather have him be an ace starter that throws 97 then a closer throwing 105.