In Major League Baseball (MLB), the role of the pitcher is one of the most complex and specialized positions on the field. While casual fans may only see a “pitcher” delivering the ball to the batter, there are many different types of pitchers, each with their own roles, strengths, and strategies. From starters to relievers, each type of pitcher plays a crucial part in the game’s dynamics. Here’s a detailed look at the various types of pitchers in the MLB.
1. Starting Pitchers (Starters)
The starting pitcher, often referred to as the “ace” if they are the top pitcher on a team, is tasked with beginning the game and pitching for as many innings as possible. Typically, a starter is expected to throw between five to seven innings, though elite starters can go deeper into the game.
- Role: Starters set the tone for the game. They face the opposing lineup multiple times, so they need a deep repertoire of pitches to keep hitters guessing. A good starter balances stamina, control, and velocity over multiple innings.
- Key Traits: Endurance, ability to mix pitches (fastball, curveball, slider, changeup), and control. Starters often throw between 90-120 pitches per game.
Examples of notable starting pitchers include Clayton Kershaw, Justin Verlander, and Gerrit Cole.
2. Relief Pitchers (Relievers)
Relief pitchers come into the game after the starting pitcher has exited, either due to fatigue or because they are struggling. Relievers are typically used for shorter stints, sometimes just for one inning or less. There are several types of relievers, each with their own specialties.
2.1. Middle Relievers
Middle relievers are usually brought in during the middle innings (5th to 7th) when the starting pitcher has been pulled from the game. Their job is to bridge the gap between the starter and the more specialized late-inning relievers.
- Role: Provide stability and maintain the game’s score. Middle relievers may pitch one or two innings.
- Key Traits: Consistency, ability to handle pressure situations, and solid control. Middle relievers might not throw as hard as closers or setup men but need to get quick outs.
Examples of effective middle relievers include Yusmeiro Petit and Andrew Chafin.
2.2. Setup Pitchers
Setup pitchers are usually deployed in the 7th or 8th inning, tasked with “setting up” the closer for the final inning. These pitchers are often very effective and skilled at high-leverage situations.
- Role: Keep the game close and ensure the lead going into the 9th inning, often facing the heart of the opposing lineup.
- Key Traits: High velocity, strikeout ability, and calm under pressure. Setup men often possess closer-like stuff but pitch in a supporting role.
Notable setup pitchers include Tyler Rogers and Trevor May.
2.3. Closers
Closers are arguably the most specialized type of pitcher in the bullpen. They typically only pitch the 9th inning when their team has a lead, with the primary job of securing the final three outs to win the game.
- Role: Finish the game with the lead intact. Closers thrive on high-pressure situations where every pitch counts.
- Key Traits: Closers often throw their hardest pitches in the 9th inning, relying on high velocity, often nearing 100 mph, and devastating secondary pitches (sliders or cutters). Mental toughness and the ability to handle pressure are essential.
Famous closers include Mariano Rivera (considered the greatest closer of all time), Aroldis Chapman, and Kenley Jansen.
3. Specialist Pitchers
Within the bullpen, certain relievers are used in very specific, situational roles. These specialist pitchers usually excel against a certain type of hitter or in specific matchups.
3.1. Left-Handed Specialist (LOOGY)
The left-handed specialist, or LOOGY (Lefty One-Out Guy), is a reliever who is brought in specifically to face left-handed hitters. These pitchers are typically dominant against left-handers but may struggle against right-handed batters.
- Role: Enter the game to get a key left-handed batter out, often in a high-leverage situation.
- Key Traits: Precision control and ability to exploit left-handed hitters’ weaknesses.
With recent rule changes requiring pitchers to face a minimum of three batters, the LOOGY role has diminished slightly but is still strategically important.
Examples of left-handed specialists include Andrew Miller and Will Smith.
3.2. Long Relievers
Long relievers are bullpen pitchers who are called upon when the starting pitcher leaves the game early, often in the first few innings due to poor performance or injury. They pitch multiple innings to keep the team in the game.
- Role: Eat innings after a starter exits early. They are used to prevent the overuse of the rest of the bullpen.
- Key Traits: Stamina and versatility. Long relievers often have the skill set of a starter but aren’t consistent enough to be in the rotation.
Examples of long relievers include Brent Suter and Josh Fleming.
4. Opener
The “opener” is a relatively new strategy in MLB, gaining popularity in the last few years. The opener is a pitcher, typically a reliever, who starts the game but only pitches the first inning or two before handing it off to other relievers or a “bulk” pitcher who takes over for multiple innings.
- Role: Face the top of the lineup once, providing a strategic advantage by limiting exposure to the best hitters.
- Key Traits: High strikeout rate and the ability to get quick outs. Openers are usually hard throwers who are accustomed to shorter outings.
The opener strategy was popularized by teams like the Tampa Bay Rays with pitchers such as Ryne Stanek.
5. Bulk Pitcher
A bulk pitcher is used in conjunction with an opener. After the opener finishes the first inning or two, the bulk pitcher comes in and throws the majority of the game, usually between three to five innings.
- Role: Provide the innings typically thrown by a traditional starting pitcher but come in after the opener.
- Key Traits: Stamina and the ability to manage multiple innings without a full starter’s workload. Bulk pitchers are usually swingmen who can both start and relieve.
Examples include Ryan Yarbrough of the Rays, who has often served as a bulk pitcher.
Pitching in the MLB is much more than just throwing the ball; it’s about strategy, roles, and specialization. From starting pitchers who set the tone to closers who shut the door, every type of pitcher plays a crucial part in a team’s success. Understanding the different roles of pitchers can give fans a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of the game and how teams manage their staff throughout the season. Whether it’s a power-throwing closer, a crafty lefty specialist, or a steady middle reliever, each pitcher brings their unique skill set to the game, helping shape the outcome of every inning.
Learn more at: https://probaseballinsider.com/baseball-instruction/fundamentals-of-hitting/types-of-baseball-pitches/
The Sport Lady has been a lifelong sports enthusiast. She believes that sports have the power to unite people, create common bonds, and foster shared experiences. As a wife and mother of sports lovers, she is passionate about her favorite teams and cherishes every opportunity to watch them play. For her, every day is game day