In discussing these pitchers, it's notable that K rates today are very high, off the charts.
Average MLB K rate is 8.70 per nine. Average starter 8.35. Average reliever, real high, 9.23.
The goal today is to have pitchers missing bats from the first inning through the ninth. Analytics certainly a factor.
The reason I'm high on Mahle, despite some issues, is that he can do this. That's not the overall picture on the Reds.
The Reds' K rates are 7.56 staff-wide; 6.88 starters; 8.51 relievers. Must improve to compete today.