Speed matters!

[True Dough]

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[Oeditpus Rex]

1. Hitters are used to pitches about 85 mph and faster

They've been seeing them since high school. Unless they've also played slow-pitch softball, they can't time an eephus pitch. (That's my theory, anyway.)

Accompanying thought: Having seen a good deal of high school and college women's softball, I've often wondered how major-league hitters would do against a fast-pitch pitcher. Some of 'em bring it in the mid-70s, but that's from 40 feet away. And, it comes from knee level so it's hard to pick up until it's almost on you. I'd really love to see an exhibition of this with a few Dodgers (especially Kiké Hernandez) and the ace of UCLA, USC or whatever.

[George McGovern]

2. Whomever called those three pitches made a good decision. Whiff x 3!

I wonder whether the batter was at all embarrassed. Thanks for posting this clip True Dough!

[True Dough]

3. You are welcome, George!

Nick Kurtz was no doubt embarrassed by that trip to the plate, but he has a whole lot to be proud of this season. He's been a real standout among rookies.

[George McGovern]

4. So good, it appears, the only way to get him out is throwing bloopers! Thanks again.