Key Takeaways:
– Oneil Cruz of the Pittsburgh Pirates has set two Statcast records – the first Major League player to have multiple 120 mph exit velocities in the same match and the first to record three hits over 115 mph.
– Cruz’s performance comes in the post-error backlash against the San Francisco Giants, aiding Pittsburgh’s 7-6 comeback win.
– His most potent hit, a game-tying double, marked as the fifth hardest-hit ball in the Statcast era, contributing significantly to the Pirates’ win probability.
– Cruz’s previous contributions remain notable even in the face of competitors like the Yankees’ Giancarlo Stanton.
Game-Changing Performance by Oneil Cruz
Pittsburgh Pirates’ shortstop Oneil Cruz demonstrated a historic performance on May 21 following an early game error against the San Francisco Giants. His exceptional play not only helped overturn a probable defeat but also set two new Statcast records, a feat unprecedented since the technology’s initiation in 2015.
At the plate, a visibly frustrated Cruz recorded an exit speed of over 120 mph twice, becoming the first Major League player in the pitch tracking era to achieve this. Additionally, he logged three hits travelling at an exit speed of more than 115 mph- another first in MLB’s history.
Cruz on Record-Breaking Performance
Post-match, Cruz opened up about his frustration catalysing the record-breaking hits. His teammate, Nick Gonzales, also expressed admiration for Cruz’s exceptional talent, viewing it as amazing and a little enviable.
Impressed by Cruz’s performance, stat-savvy observers were quick to appreciate his ability to impact a game. This is especially relevant considering his record-breaking efforts follow a less-than-stellar start to the season. Despite recent improvements, Cruz managed to go 17-53 with seven doubles and three homers in his last 13 games.
The Rivalries and Records
Cruz and Giancarlo Stanton of the New York Yankees dominate the Statscast leaderboard, with Stanton being the only other player to have achieved several 120-plus mph hits. Ronald Acuna Jr., Aaron Judge, and Gary Sanchez are the only other players to have achieved a 120 mph or greater exit velocity.
Aside from setting records, Cruz plays a pivotal role in clutch situations. With the Pirates trailing 6-2 during the bottom of the 9th, Cruz’s game-tying double had a staggering exit velocity of 121.5 mph. This was not only the fifth hardest-hit ball in the Statcast era but also catapulted the Pirates’ win probability from 19.5% to 63%.
Steadfast Improvement and Future Potential
Despite this not being Cruz’s first foray into record-shattering stats, he continues to progress. As evidenced by Pirates’ manager Derek Shelton, Cruz’s commitment to improvement, coupled with his ability to compartmentalise and not let his errors affect him, has played a significant part in his success.
Cruz’s record-breaking performance against the Giants has set him up well for the rest of the season. His current trajectory indicates an ever-improving player with the potential to shatter more records in the near future. Amid heated competition and rising challenges, fans and competitors alike will be watching Cruz’s continued growth and success with anticipation.