Willson Contreras emphasizes importance of bat speed for Red Sox
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 4:48 PM
Last updated Jun 12, 2026
Willson Contreras highlighted the significance of maintaining bat speed as he ages, discussing it before a game against the Rays in St. Petersburg on June 12. Currently rated in the 95th percentile for bat speed among MLB hitters, he acknowledged that while bat speed aids in hitting fastballs, making solid contact remains vital. As part of the Red Sox's player development strategy, enhancing bat speed has received increased focus, particularly following the availability of Statcast data. Contreras is batting.284 with an OPS of.897 this season, indicating his effectiveness at the plate.
- •Contreras ranks in the 95th percentile for bat speed at 76.6 mph.
- •Red Sox emphasize bat speed in player development.
- •Contreras batting.284 with.897 OPS this season.
- •Increased bat speed helps manage 99 to 101 mph pitches.
- •Statcast data availability has boosted interest in bat speed metrics.
- 4:48 PMYahoo Sports — Red Sox’ Willson Contreras elite in metric Driveline, player development stress; ‘Really important as you get old’
"Red Sox slugger: “It’s really important as you get old, for sure."
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