Angels' Flamethrower Ben Joyce Improves Pitching With Kenley Jansen's Guidance

Aria Freeman

4 min read

Post on May 18, 2025

4.5

Share

Ben Joyce's Raw Talent and the Need for Refinement

Ben Joyce's fastball has regularly clocked over 100 mph, making him one of the fastest pitchers in baseball history. His "Ben Joyce fastball" is a weapon of immense potential. However, high-velocity pitching presents unique challenges. The inherent difficulty lies in controlling such a powerful pitch; the slightest miscalculation can result in a walk or a towering home run. Relying solely on velocity, as impressive as it is, is a recipe for inconsistency. This is where refinement of his pitching mechanics becomes crucial.

• Velocity vs. Control: While a 100+ mph fastball is awe-inspiring, accuracy and command are paramount for sustained success.
• Command Issues: Early in his career, Joyce struggled with walks, a direct consequence of the difficulty in controlling his overpowering fastball.
• Need for a Diverse Arsenal: To truly excel, Joyce needed to develop additional pitch types to keep hitters off balance.

Kenley Jansen's Expertise in Command and Control

Kenley Jansen, a decorated closer with a career built on pinpoint control and a devastating cutter, brings a wealth of experience and a proven coaching philosophy to the table. His "Kenley Jansen pitching style" is a textbook example of how to maximize effectiveness with precision rather than sheer power. His mastery extends beyond the cutter; he understands the strategic use of different pitch types, including a devastating changeup.

• The Closer Mentality: Jansen's experience as a high-pressure closer provides invaluable insights into handling crucial moments in games.
• Pitch Sequencing and Strategy: Jansen is adept at understanding the nuances of pitch sequencing, using his arsenal to exploit hitters’ weaknesses.
• Coaching Approach: Reports indicate Jansen's coaching approach is focused on individualized instruction, tailoring his guidance to Joyce's unique strengths and weaknesses.

Specific Techniques and Drills Implemented

The collaboration between Joyce and Jansen involves a multifaceted approach that addresses both physical mechanics and mental preparation. Specific pitching drills and techniques implemented include:

• Grip Adjustments: Refining his grip on the fastball to enhance control and reduce unintentional movement.
• Arm Slot Modifications: Slight adjustments to his arm slot to optimize his pitching mechanics for improved accuracy.
• Mental Preparation Strategies: Focusing on mindfulness and visualization techniques to maintain composure under pressure.
• Developing Secondary Pitches: Working on his changeup and other off-speed pitches to complement his fastball and confuse hitters.

While precise details of these techniques remain confidential, the underlying principle centers around refining Joyce's delivery to improve his command and enhance his ability to locate his pitches consistently. Quotes from Joyce or Jansen on these improvements would shed further light, though such information might not be publicly available yet.

Early Results and Future Projections

While it's early days, anecdotal evidence suggests positive progress. Though hard numbers are limited at this stage, reports hint at improved strikeout rates and a decreased walk rate for Joyce since working with Jansen. This "pitching performance" improvement has the potential to significantly boost the effectiveness of the Los Angeles Angels' pitching staff.

• Increased Strikeout Rate: A greater ability to throw strikes should lead to more strikeouts, a key indicator of a pitcher's effectiveness.
• Decreased Walk Rate: Reducing walks is crucial to avoiding high-scoring innings and preserving the team's lead.
• Improved Pitch Sequencing: A more varied and effective approach to pitch selection and sequencing can make Joyce less predictable to hitters.
• Future MLB Potential: With this refined approach, Joyce's already impressive potential is further enhanced, positioning him for a highly successful MLB career. The impact on the Los Angeles Angels pitching staff is expected to be significant, bolstering their pitching depth and competitiveness.

Conclusion: The Positive Impact of Mentorship on Ben Joyce's Pitching Career

The mentorship between Kenley Jansen and Ben Joyce represents a powerful example of how combining raw talent with refined technique can unlock a player's full potential. Jansen's expertise in command and control is directly addressing Joyce's need for improved accuracy, transforming a flamethrower into a more complete and effective pitcher. The early results are encouraging, suggesting that this collaboration will yield significant long-term benefits. Follow Ben Joyce's journey as he continues to develop under Jansen’s tutelage. Learn more about the Angels' pitching staff and witness the evolution of this flamethrower into a dominant force in Major League Baseball.