After pitching 74 innings for Triple-A Scranton, Dellin Betances ERA had zoomed up to a 6.49. He'd allowed 69 walks. The strikeouts, as always, were still high at 71.
But it was time for a reality check and a change.
He was demoted to Double-A Trenton where he'd pitched for the Thunder for parts of 2010 and 2011.
Since returning, he's also returned to better form. The twenty-four-year old righty's development now seems on track. In 34 IP he's 1-1 with a 4.15 ERA in thirty four innings. He's walked 14 and struck out 36.
He spoke on Tuesday about his Thunder stint, as did Thunder pitching coach Tommy Phelps.
BETANCES
You never want to go down, but at the ame time we all agreed why I was coming down here. it was just a matter of trying to cut down the walks and be more consistent. I feel like Ive been doing a good job out of here.
I just feel like I'm throwing all my pitches for strikes. Everything is down in the zone. I feel like my release point is more consistent. I'm able to cut down the walks and get ahead of guys.
TOMMY PHELPS
He's handled it very professionally. He's staying more within himself so he's able to execute his pitches more often.
He's focusing better and staying away from the big innings. His command has gotten better, particularly of his four-seam.
