Ben Joyce's Development: Learning From Kenley Jansen's Closing Expertise

Aria Freeman

4 min read

Post on May 18, 2025

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Jansen's Command and Control: A Masterclass for Joyce

Kenley Jansen’s career is a testament to the power of pinpoint accuracy and control. While Joyce's velocity is undeniable, his command needs refinement. Jansen's mastery provides a roadmap.

Mastering the Fastball Location:

Jansen's legendary cutter, thrown with surgical precision, is a prime example. He consistently located his pitches, minimizing walks and maximizing strikeouts. Joyce can learn from this by focusing on:

• Targeting specific zones: Jansen rarely threw pitches over the middle of the plate. Joyce needs to develop a similar approach, targeting corners and using deception.
• Improved mechanics: Slight adjustments to his grip, arm angle, and release point could drastically improve his command. Video analysis, working with pitching coaches, and meticulous practice are crucial.
• Statistical analysis: Tracking pitch location data allows for objective assessment of progress, revealing patterns and areas needing work.

Developing Secondary Pitches:

Jansen didn't rely solely on his fastball. He effectively used a curveball and changeup to keep hitters off balance. For Joyce, developing effective secondary pitches is critical:

• Adding a curveball: A well-executed curveball provides a contrasting break to his fastball, making it tougher for batters to time their swings.
• Developing a changeup: A good changeup, thrown with deception, can be a devastating weapon against aggressive hitters looking for fastballs.
• Pitch sequencing: Learning to strategically sequence his pitches, varying speeds and locations, will be key to keeping batters guessing.

Mental Fortitude: The Closer's Mindset:

Closing games requires exceptional mental strength. Jansen's ability to perform under immense pressure is legendary. Joyce can cultivate a similar mindset through:

• Visualization techniques: Mentally rehearsing high-pressure scenarios can prepare him for the real thing.
• Stress management techniques: Breathing exercises, meditation, and mindfulness can help manage anxiety.
• Positive self-talk: Maintaining a positive mental attitude, even after giving up a hit, is vital. Jansen’s consistent performance showcases this mental fortitude.

Analyzing Joyce's Strengths and Weaknesses

While Joyce's velocity is a significant strength, he needs to address weaknesses to reach Jansen's level of success.

Leveraging Joyce's Velocity:

His exceptional velocity is a massive asset. The key is strategic use:

• Smart sequencing: By strategically alternating his fastball with slower pitches, he can maximize the impact of his velocity.
• Velocity variations: Even subtle changes in velocity can disrupt a hitter's timing.
• Analyzing batter tendencies: Understanding how different hitters react to high velocity can inform pitch selection.

Addressing Joyce's Control Issues:

Joyce's walk rate is an area requiring significant improvement:

• Bullpen sessions: Dedicated practice sessions focused on refining command and control are essential.
• Mechanical adjustments: Working with coaches to identify and correct any mechanical flaws contributing to walks.
• Pitching grips: Experimenting with different grips to achieve better control and consistency.

Developing a Go-to Pitch:

Jansen had multiple go-to pitches, depending on the situation. Joyce needs similar consistency:

• Developing feel for his pitches: The ability to "feel" each pitch and adjust its location and movement is crucial for success.
• Practice and repetition: Countless repetitions are needed to develop muscle memory and confidence.
• Analyzing pitch effectiveness: Using data to assess which pitches work best against different hitters.

The Importance of Mentorship and Coaching

The role of mentorship and coaching cannot be overstated. Learning from experienced players and coaches is invaluable:

• Direct mentorship: Ideally, Joyce could benefit from working directly with a seasoned closer like Jansen or a similar pitching guru.
• Film study: Analyzing Jansen's pitching mechanics and strategies through video can provide valuable insights.
• Seeking feedback: Regularly seeking constructive criticism from coaches and teammates aids in continuous improvement.

Conclusion

Ben Joyce's development as a closer hinges on mastering command, cultivating mental strength, and developing a diverse and effective arsenal of pitches. By studying the career of Kenley Jansen, a legendary closer, Joyce can learn invaluable lessons on how to leverage his velocity, refine his control, and develop the mental fortitude required to succeed in high-pressure situations. Learning from Jansen’s approach to pitching, including his pitch sequencing and command, will be key to his continued development. Follow Ben Joyce's progression as he learns from the legacy of closers like Kenley Jansen. His journey will be one to watch as he strives for mastery in the art of closing games, hopefully emulating the success of elite closer techniques seen in Kenley Jansen's career.