How Many Innings Do Pitchers Pitch in Spring Training? And Why Do They Sometimes Throw to First Base More Than Home Plate?

How Many Innings Do Pitchers Pitch in Spring Training? And Why Do They Sometimes Throw to First Base More Than Home Plate?

Spring training is a critical period for Major League Baseball (MLB) pitchers, as it serves as a bridge between the offseason and the grueling regular season. During this time, pitchers work on refining their mechanics, building arm strength, and preparing their bodies for the demands of a 162-game season. One of the most common questions fans have is: How many innings do pitchers pitch in spring training? The answer is not straightforward, as it varies depending on the pitcher’s role, experience, and health. However, there are some general trends and strategies that teams follow.

The Purpose of Spring Training for Pitchers

Spring training is not about winning games; it’s about preparation. Pitchers use this time to gradually increase their workload after months of relative inactivity. For starting pitchers, the goal is to build up their stamina so they can pitch deep into games once the regular season begins. Relievers, on the other hand, focus on sharpening their command and getting used to pitching on back-to-back days.

Innings Progression for Starting Pitchers

Starting pitchers typically begin spring training by throwing just one or two innings in their first outing. This is often referred to as a “bullpen game,” where multiple pitchers share the workload. As spring training progresses, starters gradually increase their innings. By the end of spring training, most starters aim to pitch five or six innings in a game, which is close to their regular-season workload.

For example, a veteran pitcher like Justin Verlander might start with two innings in his first spring start, then progress to three, four, and finally five or six innings by the final week of spring training. Younger pitchers or those coming off injuries might follow a more conservative progression.

Innings for Relief Pitchers

Relief pitchers have a different approach. They often pitch one inning per appearance early in spring training, focusing on command and getting a feel for their pitches. As the season approaches, they might pitch multiple innings or appear in back-to-back games to simulate regular-season conditions.

Closers, who typically pitch only one inning in regular-season games, might not exceed one inning in spring training either. Their focus is on maintaining their velocity and sharpness rather than building stamina.

Pitch Counts and Workload Management

In addition to innings, pitch counts are closely monitored during spring training. A starting pitcher might throw 15-20 pitches in their first outing, gradually increasing to 75-90 pitches by the end of spring training. Teams are cautious about overworking pitchers, especially those with injury histories.

Workload management is particularly important for young pitchers or those returning from surgery. Teams often use “piggyback” arrangements, where two pitchers split the innings in a game, to limit individual workloads while still providing valuable game experience.

The Role of Minor League Games

Not all innings pitched during spring training occur in MLB games. Many pitchers, especially those competing for roster spots, also pitch in minor league games. These games allow pitchers to work on specific aspects of their game without the pressure of facing MLB hitters. They also provide teams with more flexibility in managing innings and pitch counts.

Why Do Pitchers Sometimes Throw to First Base More Than Home Plate?

This brings us to the slightly whimsical question: Why do pitchers sometimes throw to first base more than home plate during spring training? The answer lies in the emphasis on fundamentals. Spring training is a time to refine all aspects of a pitcher’s game, including fielding their position. Pitchers practice pickoff moves, covering first base on ground balls, and fielding bunts. These skills are crucial during the regular season but often take a backseat to pitching mechanics and stamina.

In some cases, a pitcher might throw to first base multiple times in a single inning during spring training, not because they’re trying to pick off a runner, but because they’re working on their mechanics or building confidence in their pickoff move. It’s all part of the preparation process.

The Importance of Communication

Spring training is also a time for pitchers to build rapport with their catchers and coaches. They work on pitch sequencing, signs, and game strategy. This communication is essential for success during the regular season, as it ensures that everyone is on the same page.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the number of innings pitchers pitch in spring training varies widely depending on their role, experience, and health. Starting pitchers typically build up to five or six innings by the end of spring training, while relievers focus on shorter outings and back-to-back appearances. Pitch counts and workload management are critical, and minor league games provide additional opportunities for development.

As for why pitchers sometimes throw to first base more than home plate, it’s all about mastering the fundamentals. Spring training is a time for preparation, and every aspect of a pitcher’s game is under the microscope. By the time the regular season begins, pitchers are ready to focus on what they do best: getting batters out.

Q: How many innings do starting pitchers typically pitch in their first spring training game?
A: Starting pitchers usually pitch one or two innings in their first spring training game, gradually increasing their workload as spring training progresses.

Q: Do relief pitchers pitch multiple innings in spring training?
A: Yes, relief pitchers may pitch multiple innings or appear in back-to-back games later in spring training to simulate regular-season conditions.

Q: Why do pitchers throw to first base so often during spring training?
A: Pitchers practice pickoff moves and fielding fundamentals during spring training, which sometimes results in more throws to first base than home plate.

Q: Are pitch counts monitored during spring training?
A: Yes, pitch counts are closely monitored to prevent overworking pitchers, especially those with injury histories or limited experience.

Q: Do pitchers also pitch in minor league games during spring training?
A: Yes, many pitchers, particularly those competing for roster spots, pitch in minor league games to work on specific skills and manage their workload.