The Atlanta Braves gather around the smiling Jose Fernandez. (Photo: AP)
Jose Fernandez capped of an impressive rookie season by not only beating the National League’s best team, but also hitting his first major league home run to boot. However, instead of being cause for celebration, the 20-year old right hander found himself at the center of controversy.
Somebody hits off him, and he smiles. It seems like you’re not supposed to get a hit off of him.” – Braves pitcher Mike Minor, quoted by AP, September 11, 2013
Fernandez’ methodical home run trot, which precipitated a benches clearing discussion, probably wasn’t the appropriate response to in-game chiding from the Atlanta Braves. However, even before Fernandez sashayed around the bases, it was apparent that the N.L. East leaders were preoccupied with his antics on the mounds. Apparently, the rookie’s confidence was too much for the Braves to handle.
Much has been written about the Fernandez’ run-in with the Braves, but, quite frankly, the incident doesn’t deserve much inspection, especially if doing so detracts from the rookie’s impressive season. After all, if Fernandez reacts surprised every time he gives up a hit, it’s with good reason. In over 170 innings, the 20-year old allowed only 111, good for the tenth lowest opponents’ batting average in baseball history (minimum of 150 innings). Mike Minor might not like the arrogance his smile implies, but, relatively speaking, opposing batters are not supposed to get a hit off Fernandez.
Lowest Single Season Pitcher’s Batting Average Against, 1901-2013
Note: Includes all pitchers with at least 150 innings pitched.
Source: fangraphs.com
If the Braves didn’t enjoy being limited to five hits by Fernandez, they couldn’t have been fond of the two hits he recorded against them. In addition to the home run that prompted a debate on baseball etiquette, Fernandez also lined a single to center field, giving him more hits than all but one member of the Braves’ starting lineup. The righty’s 2-3 performance also pushed his final batting average to .220, which not only ranks as the fifth highest among all pitchers with at least 50 plate appearances, but is also 40 points higher than the one he allowed to the opposition.
By outhitting the batters he faced, Fernandez joined a list that includes only 10% of all pitchers since 1901 who have recorded at least 50 plate appearances and 150 innings in the same season. Fernandez’ 40 point differential stands out even more, ranking among the top 3% in terms of positive batting average differential. Although neither comparison is historic, Fernandez’ ability to outhit his opposition is further testament to the extraordinary season he just concluded.
Top-10 Batting Average Differentials, 1901 to 2013
Bottom-10 Batting Average Differentials, 1901 to 2013
Note: Includes all pitchers with at least 150 innings and 50 plate appearances in the same season. Out of a total population of 6,783, only 680 have had a positive differential.
Source: fangraphs.com
Jose Fernandez is more the worthy of the many accolades he has received this season. Last night’s confrontation with the Braves not withstanding, it has been memorable season for the Marlins’ rookie…one that should put a smile on his face throughout the off season. Hopefully, Mike Minor and his sensitive Braves teammates can abide that indiscretion.
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