So much of the philosophy around MLB starting pitching has changed in recent years.
It’s not quite yet at the groupthink level that seemed to attach itself to the idea a few years ago that NFL running backs were readily replaceable, but it’s on a similar trajectory.
Starting pitching has gradually become devalued. As the emphasis on max effort, high velocity and “stuff” has increased, starter’s workloads have decreased in favor of multi-pitcher strategies. A seven-inning start has become a rarity rather than an expectation. Keeping a starter in for the third time through an order is considered daring and almost taboo.
This week’s pivotal Mets-Phillies series is a good capsule of that development.