Nationals pitchers Yovanny Cruz and Will Dion highlight command over velocity

During a recent matchup against the New York Mets on August 15, 2026, Washington Nationals pitchers Yovanny Cruz and Will Dion showcased contrasting pitching styles. While Cruz threw an average fastball of 100 MPH, he failed to generate swings and misses, recording a 0% whiff rate. In contrast, Will Dion's slower fastball at 91 MPH proved more effective, featuring considerable induced vertical break and a 33.6% whiff rate. Dion's command and pitch shape have garnered attention as he aims to solidify his role in the Nationals' rotation, whereas Cruz may need to reconsider his approach given his struggles with command and effectiveness.

• 2:50 PMYahoo Sports — New Nationals pitchers Yovanny Cruz and Will Dion are showing that velocity is not everything