Zack Greinke is unique, or at least he's been unique over the last couple of seasons, as Grant Brisbee observed (with some relish) earlier today.
NLCS Game 5 InfoGraphic: Zack Greinke vs. Jaime Garcia
Six weeks ago, I wrote extensively about Jaime García who, despite some contrary numbers, seemed perfectly fine to me.
All of which is worth reviewing, I think, because a) Greinke and García are facing off tonight in Game 5 of the National League Championship Series, and b) they’ve both struggled in their two starts apiece in the postseason; García’s got a 7.36 ERA so far, Greinke 8.18.
Yeah, I know: Small Sample Sizes. I’m not particularly concerned for them. But even if you don’t want to review the above, this isn’t the worst time to look at their performances this season ... graphically.
Both have generally failed to work deep into games this season, but otherwise they’re quite different, don’t you think? García’s actually got fine control, with solid strikeout and walk rates. But of course Greinke’s off the charts, with slightly fewer walks than García and a lot more strikeouts. But García compensates by keeping the ball down; Greinke doesn’t, not nearly as much anyway.
Of course, both have had problems keeping the ball down in October; García’s given up three home runs and Greinke four, which goes a long way toward explaining those bloated ERAs.
Here’s a truly non-insightful prediction: Whichever of them allows fewer home runs in Game 5 will last longer, and have a better shot at winning.
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