Why is Happ more successful now than in previous years? What has he changed?
Fine tuned his mechanics when he joined the Pirates. Also says that he has improved mentally and got rid of some bad habits in his game.
For me, beyond the fact the coaching in Pittsburgh helped him, it's his realization he will win and lose with command of the fastball. He's throwing more fastballs and is locating it very well.
His fastball opens up all of his other pitches.
Doesn't hurt that he hasn't missed up hardly at all this year.
With his OBP, Saunders seems like the best lead-off man on this team. At least until Travis is back, if he can ever get healthy.
Tom Hallion's punch out is the GOAT