Spring training often feels like a mirage when it comes to evaluating player performance, with small sample sizes and varying competition levels. However, when it comes to genuine changes in skillset or health, that's where things get interesting.
Take Brandon Williamson, for instance. The lefty, who spent 2023 with the Cincinnati Reds, had a rough 2024 with a shoulder injury and later a torn UCL that required Tommy John surgery. Fast forward to his return on Tuesday, and Williamson made quite the impression.
Despite allowing a towering 460-foot homer to Jac Caglionone, Williamson struck out four of the nine batters he faced over two innings. He was sharp, throwing 26 strikes out of 34 pitches.
But what really caught the eye was his fastball velocity. In 2023, he averaged 92.5 MPH, and in his brief 2024 stint, he was up to 93.1 MPH.
On Tuesday, he clocked in at an impressive 94.4 MPH. His changeup also saw an uptick, coming in 2.7 MPH faster than before.
For a pitcher bouncing back from significant arm injuries, seeing this kind of velocity increase is promising. But it wasn't just speed that was noteworthy.
Williamson's cutter and slider displayed new movement, with the cutter showing more sink and horizontal action. The same trend was seen with his slider, indicating potential tweaks in his pitching arsenal.
Williamson is vying for the fifth spot in the Reds' rotation. However, given his recent injury history, he might find a home in the bullpen as a multi-inning reliever. This role could offer him the chance to contribute significantly without the strain of a starter's workload.
As spring training unfolds, keeping an eye on Williamson's performance and whether these early signs hold up will be intriguing. His journey back to the mound is a testament to resilience, and his evolving skillset could be a game-changer for the Reds this season.