Relief Pitcher: Braden Shipley

 Braden Shipley enters the 2020 season as one of the Miami Palms’ more enigmatic bullpen pieces. In 2019, Shipley posted a 6-3 record over 59.33 innings of relief work, but the numbers behind that record are a mixed bag. Despite registering a win–loss line that might make a casual observer smile, his 6.07 ERA and an eye-popping FIP of 9.22 reveal underlying struggles that need addressing.

Shipley’s peripheral stats tell a story of a pitcher who, while capable of picking up wins, was also prone to lapses in control. With 34 strikeouts in 59.33 innings—amounting to a modest 5.16 K/9—and 19 walks on his record, his K/BB ratio of 1.79 underscores a reliance on defensive support and timely run support from the offense. Opponents managed a .299 batting average against him, and a WHIP of 1.60 indicates he frequently allowed baserunners.

On the upside, his win total suggests that in the right circumstances, Shipley can deliver, and his experience gives him the potential to succeed if he can tighten up his command. The coaching staff, led by manager Scott Hatteberg, will likely work with Shipley during the offseason to smooth out his delivery and develop strategies to lower his home run rates—he allowed 14 home runs—and reduce his walk rate.

For 2020, Shipley’s role in the bullpen may involve being called upon in middle relief situations or in matchups against challenging lineups where his experience could be an asset. The key for Shipley will be consistency; if he can recalibrate his approach to reduce his heavy scoring outings, he might evolve into a valuable situational arm for the Palms.

Ultimately, Braden Shipley is a high-risk, high-reward piece in Miami’s bullpen puzzle. His performance this season could either serve as a catalyst for improvement in the late innings or signal a need for further adjustments. All eyes will be on Shipley as the Palms aim to tighten their bullpen and contend in what promises to be an exciting 2020 campaign.

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