MLB head of union criticizes teams' push for harder pitching, linking it to increased injuries and devaluating starting pitchers.

Tony Clark, head of the MLB Players' Association, criticized teams for pushing pitchers to throw harder, resulting in increased injury rates and devaluing starting pitchers. He noted a rise in average fastball velocity from 93.3 mph to 95.5 mph over the past decade, linking it to the surge in injuries. Clark emphasized the need for teams to reassess their strategies to protect player health and expressed concerns about potential playoff expansion affecting the value of regular-season wins.

October 26, 2024
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