D-backs Preview #17: 4/20 @ Reds

D-backs line-up

David Peralta

David Peralta addressed the media today and discussed his slow start at the plate. He first emphasized he’s healthy and that’s the important part. Generally, I’d agree with that. He’s working on his mechanics and hitting position, but the emphasis is on his timing.

If I’m on time to the ball I’m going to be executing better. It’s not like I’m chasing pitches. I’m just missing my pitch. I cannot be missing these pitches because that’s the pitch that I know that I can crush.

The numbers suggest he’s indeed not chasing pitches and still hitting the ball hard. But he’s hitting it on the ground a lot. Peralta has always hit it on the ground more than most hitters. Through 2020 his career GB% was 51%, vs. a league avg of 43%. But so far this year his GB rate is even higher, almost 56%. Likewise, while MLB average Launch angle is 11 degrees, Peralta has a career Launch Angle of 6 degrees, and this year just 1.1

I’m hitting the ball on the ground because I’m a little late. So that’s the timing. If I’m more on time I’m going to be able to drive the ball. I just have to be in control and be on time so I can drive the ball to the gap.

Peralta will turn 34 this August. Hopefully the “timing” isn’t aging and slowing bat speed. I will be surprised if his numbers don’t improve from where they are now. But having issues catching up to fastballs and elevating the ball off the ground is exactly what happens when hitters age.

There was discussion of the dancing fun they’ve been having in the clubhouse. His goal is to get Bumgarner involved. He says Torey’s even done it. There’s no doubt that Freight Train is a fun guy and great clubhouse presence. When he’s going well he is an impactful hitter. Let’s hope he gets going!

David Peralta audio [or link]

Torey Lovullo notes

• Zac Gallen threw 82 pitches last time out. His pitch limit will be more than that, “but not by a ton”. Sounds like 90
• Darnell Coles, D-backs hitting coach, is not with the team on this trip after tearing his right Achilles tendon during the club’s recent homestand and undergoing surgery on Friday. In his absence, in addition to Asst. Hitting Coach Eric Hinske stepping up, Hitting Coordinator Drew Hedman and Field Coordinator Chris Cron are also working with Hinske in DC’s absence. Cron is also controlling the outfielders in game in Dave McKay’s absence
• Tim Locastro saw hand specialist Dr. Sheridan , who confirmed the diagnosis received in Washington. There are no fractures and while a timeline was not offered it seems like the prognosis is good for a speedy recovery
• Christian Walker did some light Hip Rotational Movements and was asymptomatic afterwards. No swings yet, that’s next
• Ketel Marte took swings, throwing, ran in the pool. No timetable for return
• Joakim Soria had no ill effects from his bullpen. But they are still being careful with fielding movements off of the mound before talking about getting him back with the club.
• 85% Team Vaccine threshold has not been reached yet. Torey did not sound confident they will get there.

Torey Lovullo audio [or link]