The comparison between Aaron Judge and Barry Bonds is a hot topic in baseball circles, with John Smoltz sharing his insights on how Judge stacks up against the power hitters of the past. Smoltz notes that while Judge shares similarities with Bonds in terms of power and ability to drive the ball, he still has room to improve in terms of pitch selection and contact rates. Judge’s ability to make pitchers pay for mistakes and impact the entire Yankees lineup is commendable, and his defensive skills add to his overall value as a player.
When it comes to facing power hitters versus contact hitters as a pitcher, Smoltz prefers facing sluggers who are more prone to strikeouts. He believes that his pitching style was better suited to handle power hitters, whereas contact hitters with controlled swings posed a greater challenge. Smoltz highlights the importance of pitch selection and strategy when facing different types of hitters.
The Los Angeles Dodgers faced a tough weekend with injuries to Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Mookie Betts, but Smoltz believes the team can still secure a division win without making desperate moves before the trade deadline. He suggests that the team can afford to be patient and selectively add pieces to strengthen the roster without sacrificing future prospects. Despite the injuries, the Dodgers remain in a good position to compete in the NL West.
The American League Central division has emerged as a competitive division, with the Guardians, Royals, and Twins all performing well. Smoltz acknowledges the surprising success of these teams and speculates on the possibility of multiple teams from the division making the playoffs. The balance of power in the AL Central adds an exciting dynamic to the playoff race and showcases the depth of talent in the division.
MLB’s decision to integrate Negro League stats into its record books is a positive step towards honoring the contributions of players from that era. Smoltz praises the move as a way to educate fans about the rich history of the game and the impact of Negro League players. His visit to the Negro Leagues Hall of Fame left a lasting impression on him, highlighting the importance of preserving and celebrating baseball’s diverse heritage.
Overall, Smoltz’s insights offer a unique perspective on current baseball trends, player comparisons, and the significance of honoring the game’s history. His experience as a Hall of Fame pitcher and current analyst provides valuable insights into the nuances of the sport and the evolving landscape of Major League Baseball.