A Look At The Numbers Behind It

Walker Buehler and the Dodgers 2023 run suppression gains

A look at the numbers behind it

Pitching numbers

Walker Buehler has been one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball over the past few seasons. In 2022, he led the National League in ERA (2.47) and WHIP (0.97), and he finished second in Cy Young Award voting.

Buehler's success has been due in large part to his ability to suppress runs, even in the toughest matchups. In 2023, he has continued to dominate, with a 2.38 ERA and 1.01 WHIP in 49 innings.

So what is the key to Buehler's success? Let's take a look at the numbers behind it.

One of the most important factors in run suppression is K/9. Buehler has always been a strikeout pitcher, but he has taken it to another level in 2023. He is currently averaging 12.7 K/9, which is second in the NL behind only Corbin Burnes.

Buehler's ability to generate strikeouts is a big reason why he is so effective at suppressing runs. When he is on the mound, hitters are constantly worried about striking out, which makes them more likely to swing at pitches outside the zone. This leads to weak contact, and weak contact leads to fewer runs.

Another important factor in run suppression is BB/9. Buehler has always been a good control pitcher, but he has been even better in 2023. He is currently averaging just 2.1 BB/9, which is sixth in the NL.

Buehler's ability to control the running game is a big reason why he is so effective at suppressing runs. When he is on the mound, hitters are less likely to take walks, which means they are less likely to reach base and score runs.

Finally, another important factor in run suppression is HR/9. Buehler has always been a fly ball pitcher, but he has been able to limit his home runs in 2023. He is currently averaging just 0.8 HR/9, which is ninth in the NL.

Buehler's ability to limit home runs is a big reason why he is so effective at suppressing runs. When he is on the mound, hitters are less likely to hit home runs, which means they are less likely to score runs.

Overall, Buehler's success in 2023 has been due to his ability to suppress runs. He has been able to do this by striking out a lot of batters, walking few batters, and limiting home runs. As a result, he has been one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball and a big reason why the Dodgers are one of the favorites to win the World Series in 2023.