Why is Zach Neto changing his sliding style?
To avoid injuries after hurting himself twice on head-first slides.
Yanuki
ARTICLE DETAIL
Angels’ Zach Neto Adjusts to New Sliding Style Amidst Bullpen Concerns | Arizona State Sun Devils Face Baylor Bears in Big 12 Tournament Opener | Dawson Knox Signs Contract Extension with Buffalo Bills | Packers Release Cornerback Nate Hobbs After One Season | Duke's Caleb Foster Out Indefinitely with Foot Fracture: Impact on NCAA Tournament Hopes | Packers Release CB Nate Hobbs After One Season | Giants Sign Greg Newsome II to Bolster Cornerback Depth | Jalen Hurts' 'Better Than a Touchdown': A Story of Perseverance | Packers Sign Benjamin St-Juste to Bolster Cornerback Position | Angels’ Zach Neto Adjusts to New Sliding Style Amidst Bullpen Concerns | Arizona State Sun Devils Face Baylor Bears in Big 12 Tournament Opener | Dawson Knox Signs Contract Extension with Buffalo Bills | Packers Release Cornerback Nate Hobbs After One Season | Duke's Caleb Foster Out Indefinitely with Foot Fracture: Impact on NCAA Tournament Hopes | Packers Release CB Nate Hobbs After One Season | Giants Sign Greg Newsome II to Bolster Cornerback Depth | Jalen Hurts' 'Better Than a Touchdown': A Story of Perseverance | Packers Sign Benjamin St-Juste to Bolster Cornerback Position
Sports / MLB
Angels’ Zach Neto Adjusts to New Sliding Style Amidst Bullpen Concerns
Los Angeles Angels shortstop Zach Neto is working to adjust his sliding style to reduce the risk of injury after two prior mishaps. Simultaneously, the Angels' bullpen is facing challenges as veteran Hunter Strickland remains sidelined with...
Key Insights
- Zach Neto is transitioning to feet-first slides after injuring himself twice with head-first slides. This adjustment has been awkward, and he acknowledges the need for more practice.
- Hunter Strickland's absence from the Angels' bullpen due to a shoulder injury has negatively impacted the team's ERA. Before his injury, the bullpen ERA was 3.24 with him, but it has risen to 5.80 without him.
- Strickland was effective at preventing inherited runners from scoring, allowing only 4 of 21 to score. Since he's been out, Angels relievers have allowed 11 of 20 inherited runners to score.
- The Angels have signed all 21 of their selections from the recent draft, a rare occurrence they also achieved in 2023.
In-Depth Analysis
Zach Neto's transition to feet-first sliding is a proactive measure to avoid future injuries. After hurting his right shoulder last September and again a month ago, the Angels have been encouraging him to change his technique. However, Neto admits the new style feels awkward, and he needs more practice to master it.
The Angels' bullpen has struggled without Hunter Strickland, who provided stability and experience. His ability to limit inherited runners from scoring was a valuable asset. Interim manager Ray Montgomery noted Strickland brought 'an element of calm' to the bullpen.
Looking ahead, the Angels will rely on a bullpen game, with Brock Burke starting against the Mets. Jake Eder is expected to pitch bulk innings. The team's successful signing of all their draft picks indicates a commitment to building a strong foundation for the future.
FAQ
How has Hunter Strickland's absence affected the Angels' bullpen?
The bullpen ERA has increased significantly, and they've struggled to prevent inherited runners from scoring.
Takeaways
- Zach Neto is working on a new sliding technique to stay healthy, which is important for his performance and the team's success.
- The Angels' bullpen is facing challenges without Hunter Strickland, highlighting the importance of experienced relievers.
- The team is focused on developing young talent through the draft, which could pay off in the future.
Discussion
What do you think about Neto's adjustment? Will he be able to master the feet-first slide? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
Sources
Disclaimer
This article was compiled by Yanuki using publicly available data and trending information. The content may summarize or reference third-party sources that have not been independently verified. While we aim to provide timely and accurate insights, the information presented may be incomplete or outdated.
All content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Yanuki makes no representations or warranties regarding the reliability or completeness of the information.
This article may include links to external sources for further context. These links are provided for convenience only and do not imply endorsement.
Always do your own research (DYOR) before making any decisions based on the information presented.