CFT 84 - 2026 Stuff Plus Risers

The episode dives deep into 'Stuff Plus'—a proprietary metric that evaluates a pitcher's raw stuff beyond velocity—using real-time data from the 2026 season. Host Nick Pollack and guest Eno Saris dissect how subtle pitch mix shifts, command improvements, and mechanical nuances are driving unexpected breakout performances. The conversation centers on pitchers like Justin Robleski, whose 23% strikeout rate spikes correlate with a new changeup, and Braxton Ashcraft, whose 5.7% walk rate and 27% strikeout rate stem from a slider-heavy arsenal. They also explore the paradox of Sean Burke’s inconsistent dominance and the mysterious rise of Andre Palante, whose 'chicken wing' delivery masks a pitch profile with elite command. A standout moment comes when they analyze Aaron Nola’s sudden 93 mph fastball and near-platoon-neutral curveball, suggesting a command resurgence that could defy regression. The episode ends with a cautionary note: even with high Stuff Plus scores, pitchers like Jose Soriano may not sustain their early success without better command, proving that metrics alone can’t predict longevity. Key takeaways include the power of pitch sequencing over velocity, the importance of platoon splits in pitch selection, and the danger of overvaluing a single 'hot' start. The hosts emphasize that while Stuff Plus is a powerful tool, it’s the integration of command, location, and pitch mix that determines fantasy viability.