In Major League Baseball, the bullpen is an integral part of a team’s success. While starting pitchers are the foundation of the rotation, relief pitchers are the bridge that leads to a team’s victory. Although relief pitchers may be just as talented as starting pitchers, there are a few key differences that explain why they are often not starters.
Inability to Pitch Long Innings
One of the most significant differences between starters and relievers is the length that they are able to pitch. Starting pitchers are typically expected to pitch for at least five innings, while relief pitchers are usually limited to one or two innings. This is due to the fact that starting pitchers must be able to handle the physical and mental strain of pitching for longer periods of time. On the other hand, relief pitchers are called upon when the game is already in progress, so they are not expected to handle the same workload.
Differences in Pitching Styles
Another key factor that distinguishes starters from relievers is the type of pitches they throw. Starting pitchers must be able to throw a variety of pitches, including off-speed, breaking, and even knuckleballs. These pitches are necessary to keep batters off balance and ensure they are not able to predict what pitch is coming. On the other hand, relief pitchers may have an arsenal of just one or two pitches, such as a fastball or a slider. This type of pitching is designed to be effective in short bursts, as the batter is less likely to be able to adjust to a limited selection of pitches.
Different Mentalities
The mental approach to the game is another key difference between starters and relievers. Starting pitchers must be able to focus on the task at hand and block out distractions. This is because they have the luxury of knowing that they will be in the game for a prolonged period of time. On the other hand, relief pitchers are thrown into the game at any given moment, so they must be able to quickly switch gears and stay focused in a high-pressure situation.
Injury Risk
The risk of injury is another factor that explains why relief pitchers are rarely starters. Starting pitchers are expected to pitch for several innings and are more likely to suffer from arm fatigue. This can lead to an increased risk of arm injuries, such as tendonitis or rotator cuff tears. On the other hand, relief pitchers are not expected to pitch for such long stretches, so they are less likely to suffer from arm fatigue and a higher risk of injury.
Conclusion
Although relief pitchers and starting pitchers are both talented pitchers, they are used in different ways and have different roles. Relief pitchers are usually limited to one or two innings, have a more limited pitch selection, and are more likely to be used in high-pressure situations. Furthermore, they are less likely to suffer from arm fatigue and a higher risk of injury, which is why they are not usually starters.