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Joe Mack's pop time is why Marlins should be extra excited about new call-up
TL;DR
Joe Mack's impressive pop time makes him a valuable addition to the Miami Marlins after his call-up from Triple-A. His defensive skills, particularly in catching, are expected to enhance the team's performance.
Key points
- Joe Mack is promoted from Triple-A to the major leagues
- His pop time is a key defensive skill for catchers
- Marlins expect improved performance with his addition
Miami MarlinsJoe Mack
Joe Mack's pop time is why Marlins should be extra excited about new call-up originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Joe Mack can hit. He can even run a bit.
But the thing that is going to make him immediately valuable to the Miami Marlins upon his promotion from Triple-A to the major leagues is his defense. And one skill, his pop time, stands out the most.
Pop time, in essence, is how long it takes a catcher to get the ball to second base on a steal attempt.
Whether a runner gets thrown out or not can depend on how well the pitcher holds a guy on, as well as how quick a pitcher is to home plate.
But once the ball arrives to the catcher, certain players are better than others at efficiently getting rid of the ball with quickness, strength and accuracy.
Mack is one of the very best.
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No throw exemplifies that better than this one from last year's Triple-A championship series.
A pitch way outside that Mack wasn't expecting forced him to take a totally different path to the ball than he normally would. And yet even with that, he unleashes a dart to throw the runner out.
It's as if the ball barely touched Mack's glove before it was going the other way again:
Q&A
What is Joe Mack's pop time and why is it important?
Joe Mack's pop time measures how quickly he can throw the ball to second base, which is crucial for preventing stolen bases and enhancing team defense.
How will Joe Mack's call-up impact the Miami Marlins?
Joe Mack's call-up is expected to strengthen the Marlins' defense, particularly in catching, which could lead to improved overall team performance.
What are Joe Mack's strengths as a catcher?
Joe Mack is known for his hitting ability, speed, and particularly his defensive skills, with a standout pop time that makes him valuable behind the plate.
