Get ready for some exciting baseball news! The Cincinnati Reds' pitcher, Chase Burns, is about to give hitters a run for their money.
In Goodyear, Arizona, during the Reds' spring training, something special happened. As veteran Ke'Bryan Hayes stepped up to the plate, Burns delivered a slider that fooled everyone. It looked like a fastball until the last moment, diving away from the right-handed batter. The pitchers in the crowd couldn't help but laugh, amazed by Burns' skill.
"With Chase, you see guys giggling because his arm is just so unique," catcher Michael Trautwein explained. "It's a sight to behold!"
New Red Dane Myers, after his first at-bat, couldn't help but admire Burns' talent. TJ Friedl, who faced Burns last year, recalled the rookie's impressive debut, striking out MVP winners like Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger.
But here's where it gets controversial... Burns, just 23, is still finding his place in the big leagues. Last season, he had some ups and downs, including a rough second start at Fenway Park. However, his potential is undeniable, and he's working hard to secure a spot in the Opening Day rotation.
And this is the part most people miss... Burns' secret weapon might just be his changeup. While he relies heavily on his fastball and slider, it's the changeup that could elevate him to the next level. Last year, he threw it sparingly, but this season, he's perfecting it.
"If anything, just showing it is the biggest thing," Burns said. "It's like having an ace up my sleeve with my fastball and slider."
Friedl, after facing Burns's changeup, was impressed. "Adding that pitch, especially against lefties, will make him electric," he said. "It adds an element of surprise, and batters can't just guess."
So, will Burns's changeup be the key to his success? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: he's got the potential to be one of the game's best pitchers.
What do you think? Is Burns's changeup the missing piece? Or is it something else that will make him a star? Let's discuss in the comments!
