This chart examines the relationship between strikeout-to-walk ratio (SO/BB) and Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP), two key measures of pitcher effectiveness. FIP estimates a pitcher’s run prevention based solely on controllable outcomes like strikeouts, walks, and home runs, while SO/BB captures command and dominance. The use of an exponential trendline reflects the nonlinear nature of the relationship. With a p-value of 0.176 and an R² of 0.08, the statistical fit is modest, suggesting only a weak connection between command efficiency and expected run prevention across the team. However, this does not diminish the analytical value of the visualization.
Instead, the plot reveals meaningful individual distinctions. Pitchers such as Nick Robertson and Miles Mikolas appear in the top right, combining solid SO/BB ratios with lower-than-average FIP scores. Conversely, pitchers like Riley O’Brien and Adam Kloffenstein post higher FIPs despite relatively weak SO/BB values, highlighting performance gaps that traditional ERA alone may obscure. Michael McGreevy and Ryan Helsley emerge as quiet standouts, showing excellent control and effectiveness under the hood.
The quadrant layout of the chart helps frame different pitcher archetypes. The top-left quadrant features pitchers with strong strikeout-to-walk ratios and low FIP, marking them as top performers who combine command with expected run prevention. The top-right quadrant includes pitchers with high SO/BB but higher FIP, suggesting that despite their command, they may be allowing too many home runs or suffering from poor sequencing or defense. The bottom-left quadrant highlights pitchers with weaker command and strong FIP, possibly indicating efficient run prevention despite control struggles. The bottom-right quadrant, containing low SO/BB and high FIP, flags those with both performance and efficiency concerns.
Ultimately, the weak correlation is itself a story. It signals that while command contributes to run prevention, it is not the only factor. Defensive support, sequencing, and batted-ball luck all play roles, especially for pitchers with limited innings. The dashboard encourages deeper investigation into how each arm fits into the team’s broader pitching strategy.
As mentioned, Michael McGreevy is a standout. In my opinion, I think he will be a core piece for the Cardinals future. He is young, professional, and willing to work to get better. The Cardinals should make sure to give McGreevy time to tweak with his stuff in the minors, and give him big league experience while St. Louis is retooling their team.
