Kirby's arm angle and Cabrera's curve

Kirby’s New Powers

In some ways everything looks business as usual for George Kirby in 2025. His ERA of 3.71 is within random variance of his 2024 mark of 3.53, his FIP is very close at 3.21 (3.26), and his xERA, which accounts for batted ball quality, is almost identical (3.37 in 2025, 3.41 in 2024). His K% is up 3% (26%) and his walk BB% is up as well (6%). If we look under the hood, however, there are some process things that are different than we have ever seen from him.

The George Kirby formula is simple and a Ferguson Jenkins throwback in a way: throw hard and locate fastballs. While Jenkins loved the low and away fastball, Kirby's trademark fastball is at the very top of the zone, just high enough that hitters cannot reach it. In...

Almost!

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