Clayton Kershaw

[the 'stache]

I wonder what, principally, is to explain for the jump in his strikeout rate the last three years. Between 2011 and 2013, he won two Cy Youngs, and was runner up in the other season. His K/9 IP rate was 9.2. The last three years, that's jumped considerably; a full 2 Ks to 11.2. His walk rate in the first three year span was 2.2/9 IP, and even before this season's historic start, he was averaging 1.5 BB/9 IP between 2014 and '15. So, his walk rate had dropped by about 1/3.

[clydepepper]

Originally Posted by the 'stache

I wonder what, principally, is to explain for the jump in his strikeout rate the last three years. Between 2011 and 2013, he won two Cy Youngs, and was runner up in the other season. His K/9 IP rate was 9.2. The last three years, that's jumped considerably; a full 2 Ks to 11.2. His walk rate in the first three year span was 2.2/9 IP, and even before this season's historic start, he was averaging 1.5 BB/9 IP between 2014 and '15. So, his walk rate had dropped by about 1/3.

Bill- without being absolutely sure that any one thing is a 'principal reason' for the statistical enhancements you mentioned:


I would make a few educated guesses:


1.) His learning curve has improved the more he applies what he already knows works and what, if anything, does not


2.) His grasp of individual umpire's strike-zones has improved...as have their expectations of his deliveries.


3.) He is probably physically stronger


4.) That added strength allows him to 'finish up' designed 'out' pitches more efficiently


5.) He has learned to a more certain degree what he can expect from his defense and what he will have to do on his own;


...in short, hard as it is to believe, he just got better...and that trend won't go on forever...so let's enjoy it while we can!

[frankbmd]

It looks like Kershaw forgot to pack his WHIPS and FIPS for the current road trip.

[clydepepper]

That's what he gets for scheduling against GOT finale.

[Dewey]

Not good tonight. But he battled. And for as often as he picks up the team, they didn't pick him up. Typical.

The first steal attempt of the season against Kershaw today. Out at second. Plus his first intentional walk of the year. Rockies at home up next.

[Aquarian Sports Cards]

As a Dodger fan on the East Coast I never get to see him pitch. I of course was watching tonight. So I think it's my fault. I turned off the game after the bases clearing double and apparently the world righted itself shortly thereafter. I apologize for not understanding the full extent of my powers.

[Touch'EmAll]

Aquarian - same as you. I watched him for first time on TV this year - oh, well. At least I recorded Swimming Olympic Trials.

[Dewey]

First time back to this thread since Kershaw's last start. Team rallying and this post made me lol. ASC that's about the perfect encapsulation of a baseball fan. I've never thought this way after a football game, but almost every baseball game. Hell if we homer while my left arm is raised, up it stays. Haha.

Originally Posted by Aquarian Sports Cards

As a Dodger fan on the East Coast I never get to see him pitch. I of course was watching tonight. So I think it's my fault. I turned off the game after the bases clearing double and apparently the world righted itself shortly thereafter. I apologize for not understanding the full extent of my powers.