The Toronto Blue Jays’ decision to pull starting pitcher Jose Berrios in a recent game has been heavily criticized by fans and analysts alike. However, when we take a closer look at the numbers, it becomes evident that the decision was not as wrong as it may seem at first glance.

On the surface, it may appear that pulling Berrios early was a mistake. After all, he had been pitching exceptionally well throughout the game, allowing only one run and striking out several batters. Many fans were left scratching their heads when the Blue Jays’ manager decided to replace him with a reliever in the sixth inning.

But let’s dive deeper into the statistics to understand the reasoning behind this decision. One crucial factor that managers consider when deciding to pull a starting pitcher is their pitch count. Pitch count refers to the number of pitches a pitcher has thrown in a game. Research has shown that as pitch count increases, a pitcher’s performance tends to decline, leading to a higher risk of injury and decreased effectiveness.

In Berrios’ case, his pitch count had already reached 100 by the end of the fifth inning. This is considered a significant milestone for pitchers, as it indicates that they are entering the later stages of their outing. By pulling Berrios at this point, the Blue Jays were prioritizing his long-term health and performance over immediate results.

Furthermore, looking at Berrios’ historical performance, we can see that he tends to struggle when facing hitters for the third time in a game. This phenomenon, known as the “third-time-through-the-order penalty,” is a common trend among many starting pitchers. As hitters become more familiar with a pitcher’s repertoire and tendencies, they often have an advantage in subsequent plate appearances.

By replacing Berrios with a fresh reliever in the sixth inning, the Blue Jays were aiming to neutralize this potential disadvantage. Relievers are typically used in short bursts and can bring a different look to the opposing hitters, disrupting their timing and potentially leading to more favorable outcomes for the pitching team.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the Blue Jays’ bullpen has been a strength for them this season. Their relievers have consistently performed well, boasting one of the lowest earned run averages (ERA) in the league. By utilizing their bullpen effectively, the Blue Jays were leveraging their strength and maximizing their chances of securing a win.

While it is understandable that fans may have been disappointed by the decision to pull Berrios, it is essential to consider the larger context and the numbers behind it. The Blue Jays’ decision was based on statistical analysis, historical trends, and a focus on long-term success. Ultimately, their goal is to optimize their chances of winning games throughout the season, and sometimes that means making tough decisions that may not immediately please everyone.

As fans, it is crucial to trust in the expertise and knowledge of the team’s coaching staff and front office. They have access to a wealth of data and information that goes beyond what we see on the surface. While we may not always agree with their decisions, it is essential to recognize that they are made with the best interests of the team in mind.

So, while the Blue Jays’ decision to pull Berrios may have been met with skepticism, the numbers and strategic reasoning behind it suggest that it was not as wrong as it may have initially seemed. As fans, let’s continue to support our team and trust in their decision-making process, even when it may be difficult to understand at first.