7 years agoOakland Athletics starting pitcher Sean Manaea is looking to be more fierce on the mound in 2018, according to Marin Gallegos of The Mercury News. Manaea said he felt kindness to hitters, which led to an up-and-down season in 2017. “I feel like I’m a little too nice sometimes and it transitions onto the field,” Manaea said. “I know if I want to be good, I have to be different." Manaea had a letdown season in 2017 (4.37 ERA, 1.40 WHIP), but his spring debut was reassuring. On Tuesday, he pitched two scoreless innings, striking out three batters while allowing just one hit and two walks on 45 pitches. Another good sign is that Manaea showed no ill effects from back tightness that delayed his first start. Manaea is also looking to expand his arsenal by incorporating a slider more so hitters aren't focused on just his fastball and changeup. With more outings like the one on Tuesday, Manaea could definitely be a bounce-back candidate.--Ellis Canady - RotoBaller
Source: Martin Gallegos