June 7, 2023
Left-handed pitcher Mason Fluharty added a 2-seam fastball to his repertoire this off-season.
“I was throwing a bullpen at the complex in Florida,” explained Fluharty. “One of the pitching coaches came up to me and said lets see a 2-seam grip. I said I will probably cut it – but I will try. I had a little velo jump from it and it actually did what I wanted it to do, which was throw it off the cutter. It has really helped me this season and I feel it’s why I’m with New Hampshire right now.”
Known for his cutter that he throws 70 to 80% of the time, Fluharty feels the 2-seam fastball was the missing piece from a promotion out of High-A.
“The hitters in Double-A are different than High-A,” Fluharty added. “They don’t sell out on the cutter, so adding the 2-seam has helped. I think the Blue Jays’ added it for this level and levels above.”
Pitching 21 2/3 innings between the two levels this season; Fluharty has racked up 30 K’s with a WHIP of 0.83.
Using a three-pitch mix, Fluharty also features a slider to go along with his cutter and 2-seamer.
Fluharty talks about how he works off his cutter, “I mostly pound the cutter and will occasionally mix in a 2-seamer.” stated Fluharty.
Pitching later in games, Fluharty embraces his bullpen role.
“I like being able to pitch in high leverage situations all the time,” said Fluharty. “I’m not a starter guy, I’m not a long relief guy; I like coming in with the bases loaded with no outs or coming in during a 1-run ballgame and close it out – showing my emotion that is who I am.”