Post by larrycook on Feb 2, 2014 11:18:35 GMT -5
Unresearched thought:
I find it interesting that when comparing Webster to Owens on a one to one basis that both have a different command or control issue and that Webster is generally (myself included) thought of as having the best "stuff", yet when they do throw strikes, Owens is missing a lot more bats and getting better results, more so than the difference in levels would seem to indicate.
Just from looking at video and nothing in person, when Webster misses, the pitch is usually out over the plate, when Owens misses the ball is usually well outside the strike zone.
There is no doubt Webster's stuff is really good, but until he can keep it on the black, he will give up some loud hits. It seems from the video, that he does seem to repeat his delivery, except for the release point, which is why some pitches become big fat juicy taters and some are unhittable.
Owens seems to create a lot of swings and misses on pitches outside the strike zone. It makes me wonder what will happen in the upper minor leagues when the hitters lay off the late breaking pitches and he has to challenge them with an 88 mph fastball. Also even though Owens is 6'6",he does not have a long step off the mound. Maybe if the Sox work with him on building up his legs, Owens could get an extra 3 or 4 MPH on his fastball.
In summary Webster needs to set a release point and develop some poise and confidence on the mound and he could be the #4 starter in our current rotation, ahead of Doubront, Dempster and Peavy.
Owens, is a wait and see how this year goes.