MLB Pitching Update: Luis Gil Makes Debut, Joey Wentz Flies High

Weekly Update on Starting Pitchers: Key Changes and Performance Insights

Every week, it's time to take a closer look at the starting pitchers who are making waves in the fantasy baseball world. This article will focus on identifying meaningful changes that could impact a pitcher’s performance, whether it's new pitches, velocity increases, or shifts in usage patterns. The goal is to determine if these recent results are sustainable or just temporary spikes.

This week, we'll be analyzing several pitchers who have either made significant adjustments or shown promising signs of improvement. These insights will help you decide whether to add them to your roster, trade for them, or invest fully in their success.

Luis Gil – New York Yankees (Season Debut)

Luis Gil made his 2025 season debut on Sunday, but the results were not ideal. He allowed five runs on five hits in 3.1 innings while walking four and striking out three. However, beyond the surface-level stats, there were some intriguing developments.

Gil maintained a strong Induced Vertical Break (iVB) on his four-seam fastball, with seven feet of extension—up from 6.7 feet last year. This suggests potential improvements in his pitch effectiveness. His slider also showed more break than in previous seasons, though command issues were evident. The changeup, which had been an average pitch last year, didn't show much improvement in this start.

Despite the command struggles, Gil's velocity remained consistent, and he has a history of inconsistent control. While I'm not overly optimistic about his performance this season, I believe he still has the talent to be a valuable addition to a fantasy team.

Joey Wentz – Atlanta Braves (Four-seam Shape, Cutter Usage)

Joey Wentz has seen a dramatic improvement since being moved into the Atlanta Braves' rotation. In four games (three starts), he recorded a 1.50 ERA, .072 WHIP, and a 21/6 K/BB ratio in 18 innings. The key changes seem to be in his pitch mix and mechanics.

Wentz's four-seam fastball has shown more vertical break and less arm-side run, making it appear flatter and more effective. He has also adjusted his cutter usage, treating it more like a slider and using it more frequently in two-strike counts. This shift has led to improved performance against right-handed hitters, with a higher swinging strike rate and fewer hard-hit balls.

The Braves have clearly made strategic adjustments that have benefited Wentz, and his performance has reflected that. I’m confident enough to add him to my fantasy roster and monitor how long this success lasts.

Hurston Waldrep – Atlanta Braves (Season Debut)

Hurston Waldrep made his season debut under challenging circumstances, driving five hours to the field and starting a game with two runners on base. Despite the difficulties, he only allowed one run in 5.2 innings, showing promise.

Waldrep has shifted his approach by using a sinker instead of his four-seam fastball, which has improved his command. He also introduced a new cutter, which he used effectively in his debut. Additionally, he modified his mechanics to reduce the aggressiveness of his knee lift, leading to better control and consistency.

These changes have resulted in improved performance, particularly in June, where he posted a 1.94 ERA and a solid K/BB ratio. While he still needs more time to prove himself, the adjustments he’s made suggest a more usable profile than in previous seasons.

Johan Oviedo – Pittsburgh Pirates (Season Debut)

Johan Oviedo made his 2025 season debut and showed some positive signs despite poor command. His four-seam fastball had increased extension and vertical break compared to 2023, and his slider showed more movement and command. He also made adjustments to his curveball, adding horizontal movement and reducing its speed slightly.

Oviedo’s performance was affected by nerves, but the underlying changes in his pitch mechanics suggest potential for improvement. He has been sent back to Triple-A, but his performance in his first start makes him a name to watch as he returns to the majors.

Justin Verlander – San Francisco Giants (Curve and Fastball Usage)

Justin Verlander continued his strong performance with another solid outing, allowing no earned runs in five innings. His curveball usage has shifted significantly, with more frequent use against righties and different location strategies. This has led to improved swinging strike rates and reduced hard contact.

Verlander also adjusted his approach against righties, attacking more inside with his four-seam fastball. These changes, combined with slight increases in velocity, have contributed to his recent success. While he may not be back to his peak form, Verlander is showing enough improvement to be considered for streaming in fantasy leagues.