Michael Fulmer is making waves with the SF Giants this spring, and he’s doing it in style. The veteran pitcher has been a standout in the Cactus League, proving that sometimes, less is more-even when it comes to velocity.
Fulmer joined the Giants on a minor league deal right before spring training kicked off, slipping into the bullpen competition almost unnoticed. With the Giants keeping an open mind about their bullpen roles, any non-roster invitee with a strong performance had a shot at making the team. Fulmer has seized that opportunity.
Alongside Caleb Kilian and Gregory Santos, Fulmer is in the mix for a spot on the Opening Day roster. The Giants have given him plenty of opportunities to showcase his skills, tying him for the team lead with seven appearances. Clearly, they’re interested in what he brings to the table.
In nine innings, Fulmer has posted a solid 3.00 ERA, striking out 13 while walking just three. While spring stats don’t always predict regular-season success, they do play a crucial role in roster decisions. Fulmer’s numbers have certainly put him in a favorable position.
His 13 strikeouts rank third on the team, trailing only Robbie Ray and Carson Whisenhunt. However, what’s intriguing is his fastball velocity, which has dipped to an average of 90.9 MPH-down from over 93 MPH last season. Despite this, Fulmer’s effectiveness hasn’t wavered.
Fulmer has adapted by leaning heavily on his curveball, using it nearly 40 percent of the time, and it’s paying off with a 39.3 percent whiff rate. He’s also mixed in a cutter, with the fastball serving as a third option. While teams often prefer relievers who can light up the radar gun, Fulmer is proving that you can still be effective with a different approach.
At 33, Fulmer’s savvy use of his repertoire is a testament to his experience and adaptability. His role with the Giants will likely be shaped by his performance, but his ability to get outs without relying on blazing speed is a storyline worth watching.