Dylan Cease’s New Changeup Transforms His Pitching Arsenal
Dylan Cease, the Blue Jays’ $210 million investment, has redefined his approach to the changeup, a pitch that now plays a pivotal role in his performance, according to recent game data and player statements.
How Has Cease’s Changeup Evolved?
Cease’s new changeup, thrown 19% of the time against left-handed hitters this season, contrasts sharply with his previous “Bugs Bunny” variant, which averaged 78.3 mph and was described as “unusable” by the pitcher. The updated pitch, now at 84.2 mph, has a 63% whiff rate against lefties, the second-highest in MLB this season (min. 25 swings), per Statcast.
Why Is Cease’s Changeup Effective?
The pitch’s success stems from its speed differential rather than traditional movement. While it drops 9.6 inches less than comparable changeups, its 15.7 inches of vertical break (IVB) mirrors the average four-seam fastball. “It’s just the change of speeds,” Cease said. “When I’m throwing it in the mid-80s and they have to gear up for 97, 98, that alone is beating them.”
What Role Does the Changeup Play in Cease’s Strategy?
Cease has reduced his reliance on the four-seam fastball and slider from 83% to 64% this season, adding a two-seam fastball and refining his changeup. This variety has allowed him to “show a wider array of attack,” he said, making him harder to game-plan against. The pitch has also generated a 79% flail rate, meaning hitters swing at pitches outside their barrel 79% of the time.
How Did Cease Develop the New Changeup?
Cease’s mechanical adjustments, including a new grip and focus on body movement, were critical. He uses a two-seam grip for the changeup, a shift from his previous splitter grip. His natural supination—difficulty throwing arm-side movement—required collaboration with Blue Jays coaches to find a functional grip. “It’s very early still,” he said, but the pitch is now “a real offering.”
What’s Next for Cease’s Changeup?
While the pitch remains a work in progress, its impact is evident. Cease’s 15 changeups in his first post-IL start induced eight whiffs, and his 4-for-20 mark against the pitch against lefties underscores its effectiveness. As he continues refining the pitch, the Blue Jays’ success this season may hinge on its continued development.
How Does Cease’s Changeup Compare to Others?
Cease’s changeup shares similarities with Dodgers lefty Alex Vesia, whose pitch also features minimal drop and a high whiff rate. Vesia, who found success after offseason adjustments, is the only pitcher with a higher changeup whiff rate than Cease. Both pitchers highlight the evolving role of speed-based changeups in modern pitching.