Starting Pitcher Performances from Saturday: Highlights and Low Lights

CLEVELAND, Ohio – On Saturday, May 18, 2025, Nick Pollack analyzed every starting pitcher’s performance from the day’s games, offering insights for both casual fans and serious fantasy league players.

Pollack started with a focus on the Guardians‘ recent trade for a pitcher who made a notable return. In a game against the Reds in Cincinnati, the pitcher delivered an impressive 5 innings with 3 earned runs, 5 hits, and 8 strikeouts. He showcased a powerful fastball that reached up to 98 mph, alongside a variety of pitches including sliders and changeups.

Another standout was Rasmussen, who pitched 6 innings against the Marlins, wielding a cutter and sinker effectively while managing to keep his pitch count low with just 81 pitches. His performance was vital as he prepares to face tougher opponents in the coming matches.

Pollack highlighted concerns about a pitcher from the Yankees who struggled despite a good plan. He noted that while his four-seamer was solid, other pitches were not as sharp, leaving room for improvement.

On the flip side, he praised a performance from Pivetta with solid outcomes against strong lineups, and a pitcher making waves due to his powerful fastball and effective changeup. However, the challenges ahead with facing elite teams remain concerning.

He also reflected on players who faced difficulties, highlighting the impact of inconsistency in their pitches. A common theme across various performances was the importance of not just throwing strikes but making those strikes effective.

As Pollack concluded, the week ahead looks promising for several players, and he encouraged players to keep an eye on matchups as today’s performances could influence fantasy decisions.

The insights shared, including metrics like CSW and pitch types, provided a depth of analysis for those making lineup choices and are essential for the fantasy community.