Emerging pitching trends are reshaping the dynamics of Major League Baseball’s playoff race. On the same night that Royals All-Star Seth Lugo struck out 10 batters over seven scoreless innings in the Bronx, fellow first-time All-Star Reynaldo López, a recently converted reliever, exited his start due to injury after just one inning. This stark contrast highlights the volatility and unpredictability of pitchers making the leap from bullpen to starting roles.
As the 2024 season progresses, many top relievers-turned-starters are pushing their limits while becoming essential components for playoff-bound teams. This trend raises questions about sustainability as October approaches, especially for teams like the Braves, who are hoping their success story remains intact despite setbacks.
Among pitchers who have logged over 100 innings this season, none boast a lower ERA than López. This achievement is especially impressive considering that it is the 30-year-old’s first season back in a starting role since 2020. Although he faced a brief stint on the injured list due to forearm inflammation, he returned with a commanding 1.96 ERA and 34 strikeouts in just 23 innings before his recent setback.
The shift from reliever to starter demands a significant mental adjustment. López recognized that he could no longer rely solely on his high-velocity pitches, which were effective in shorter outings. Chris Sale described this ability as “throttle control,” emphasizing how López can switch gears when the game is on the line.
Despite initial tests showing no serious issues, López was placed on the injured list due to shoulder tightness, reminding fans of the uncertainty surrounding converted relievers as they venture deeper into their new roles. Lugo, now a prominent figure in this trend, faced his own challenges before finding success after years of waiting for an opportunity to return to starting duties.
After beginning his career as a starter, Lugo spent the bulk of his time with the Mets in the bullpen. Each offseason, he remained hopeful for a return to the rotation, believing that strong performances in relief would earn him that chance. “If I pitch well enough in the pen, I’ll get another shot to start,” he stated, reflecting the frustration of being labeled “too good” for starting duties.
A change in scenery with the Padres finally provided Lugo the opportunity he had long sought. He made the most of it, starting all 26 games and pitching 146.1 innings, which was nearly as much as his previous three seasons combined. His experience as a reliever became invaluable as he learned to handle pressure situations effectively.
Lugo’s success has opened doors for other veteran relievers aiming for similar opportunities. He believes that persistence is key, stating, “Not giving up on the idea of starting is the hardest part.” This season has seen a notable rise in the number of successful transitions, with pitchers like Garrett Crochet and Michael King also making the leap from the bullpen to starting roles.
As Sale aims for his first Cy Young Award at 35, he and López have bolstered a Braves rotation that has faced numerous injuries yet remains competitive. López’s improved command and effectiveness in his new role have made him a standout, but the recent injury serves as a reminder of the risks involved in pushing pitchers beyond their limits.
While this season has highlighted the potential of converted relievers, it also serves as a cautionary tale. Jordan Hicks, once known for his erratic command, pursued starting opportunities with the Giants but faced challenges along the way. The journey from relief to starting is fraught with uncertainty, and teams must carefully manage workloads to prevent injuries.
With playoff spots on the line, teams like the Padres and Braves continue to rely on their converted relievers to stabilize their rotations. As these pitchers prove their mettle, they inspire others who aspire to reclaim their starting roles. Lugo’s journey serves as a beacon of hope for those labeled as “failed starters,” encouraging them to persist in their aspirations.
“I’m rooting for them, too,” Lugo expressed, highlighting the camaraderie among pitchers navigating similar paths. The evolving landscape of MLB pitching could very well influence the outcome of the postseason, making it a pivotal season for converted relievers across the league.
