August 6, 2019
Photo credit: Kent State Athletics
Right-handed pitcher Austin Havekost has been reliable on the mound since returning from Tommy John surgery two months ago.
Averaging close to a strikeout an inning with 14 K’s in 14 2/3 innings pitched; between the GCL and Bluefield has been a great place to start.
Factor that in with his 0.89 WHIP, and .170 opponent batting average; and it would appear that Havekost has made a full recovery from his TJ surgery.
His success on the mound comes from more than his recovery – but more so from the command of his four pitches.
Currently using a mix of a fastball, a sinker, a changeup, and a slider in his repertoire; Havekost discusses how he tries to get quick outs with his fastball.
“I try to get ahead early or induce contact within three pitches or less.” said Havekost.
His recovery hasn’t effected his velocity at all, as Havekost explains that his velo is back to where it was when he pitched for Kent State.
“My velocity is right back to where it was before surgery,” explained Havekost. “I think there’s some more to be dug into, however, I’m very happy where I’m at with all of my pitches.”
But Havekost has noticed more than his velocity being back to normal in pro ball.
Talking about some of those changes between playing at Kent State and pitching in the Blue Jays’ system; Havekost has really noticed a difference in how the coaches go about their business in pro ball.
“At the college level, your coaches are telling you everything you need to do and how you are going to do it,” stated Havekost. “At the pro level, you have those same coaches that will show you things to work on but you have to take it into your own hands and work at it. I believe whatever you put in is what you’ll get out of it at the end of the day.”
Be sure to follow Austin Havekost’s journey in the Blue Jays’ system.