As we've noted in this space before, it takes quite the performance for a pitcher to Puigify themselves, as the nature of their job just doesn't allow for it easily. The Reds' Mike Leake managed the feat on Tuesday, however, as he not only struck out eight Pirates en route to victory, but supported his own cause with a double and a home run as well. One man hasn't stymied pirates that much since Woodes Rogers was around.
The Daily Puig: Mike Leake homers, doubles, strikes out 8 Pirates
Puig would be proud of Leake’s rockets.
Andy Lyons
...sorry. I have an apology GIF for you:
Leake's blast off of Pirates' starter Gerrit Cole only traveled 381 feet, but that's enough to make it out of all 30 ballparks, and it came off the bat like a rocket at 107 miles per hour to boot. It also ended up being enough to make sure Leake came away with a W, as the Reds ended up winning 7-5, with Leake exiting with the lead after 6-2/3. The double looked and moved similarly, and was even to the same part of the park, but didn't get the same height that this home run did.
Following this game, Leake’s career line at the plate is .250/.280/.335. While not good compared to your average position player, consider that pitchers as a whole have batted .119/.144/.161 this year, meaning their current OPS is lower than Leake’s career slugging: he’s done pretty okay for himself compared to everyone else.
His career OPS+ of 66 is better than that of many active non-pitchers with at least 250 plate appearances behind them, too. Twins outfielder Aaron Hicks is only at 65, and cult figure Munenori Kawasaki as well. Marlins starting shortstop Adeiny Hechavarria is at 64 after 777 plate appearances, and longtime Rays infielder Reid Brignac sits at just 58. Baseball Reference has the full list of 96, if you need to memorize the whole thing.
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