Dallas Keuchel Finds Renewed Success in Japan

After a disappointing 2021 season in the MLB, left-handed pitcher Dallas Keuchel has found new life in Japan. Keuchel signed a one-year, $1.2 million contract with the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in December 2021, and he has quickly become one of the team's most valuable players.

A Strong Start in Japan

Keuchel has been dominant in his first six starts for the Hawks, going 4-0 with a 1.69 ERA. He has struck out 42 batters in 35.1 innings pitched, and he has allowed just 18 hits. Keuchel's success has helped the Hawks to a 24-12 record, which is the best in the Pacific League.

Keuchel's Success in Japan

There are several reasons for Keuchel's success in Japan. First, he is throwing his fastball with more velocity than he did in the MLB. According to Baseball Savant, Keuchel's average fastball velocity in Japan is 91.2 mph, up from 90.2 mph in the MLB.

Second, Keuchel is throwing his changeup more effectively in Japan. In the MLB, Keuchel's changeup had a whiff rate of just 15.5%. In Japan, his changeup has a whiff rate of 22.6%.

Third, Keuchel is getting more strikeouts in Japan. In the MLB, Keuchel's strikeout rate was 23.9%. In Japan, his strikeout rate is 29.5%.

Keuchel's Impact on the Hawks

Keuchel's success has had a major impact on the Hawks. The team has won 12 of their last 13 games, and Keuchel has been a key part of that success. The Hawks are now in first place in the Pacific League, and they are one of the favorites to win the Japan Series.

Keuchel's Future

Keuchel is signed with the Hawks for one year, but he has said that he would like to stay in Japan for multiple years. The Hawks have said that they are open to extending Keuchel's contract, and it is likely that he will remain in Japan for at least another season.

Conclusion

Dallas Keuchel has found new life in Japan. He is pitching better than he has in years, and he has helped the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks to the top of the Pacific League standings. Keuchel is a key part of the Hawks' success, and he is likely to be a major factor in the team's quest for a Japan Series title.

Tables

Table 1: Keuchel's Stats in the MLB and Japan

Table 2: Keuchel's Fastball Velocity

Table 3: Keuchel's Changeup Whiff Rate

Table 4: Keuchel's Strikeout Rate