This pro's perspective on facing deGrom is absolutely insane

by Tim Reilly June 23, 2021

It's no secret Jacob deGrom is the best pitcher in baseball. Frankly, no one even bothers to make an argument against it anymore. It's universally accepted.

Watching him in person Monday night was unreal. I somehow forgot how much different it is to watch greatness in person. I am, however, curious to hear a batter's perspective. From the seats, it doesn't look like a fair fight. It's like something out of a bugs bunny cartoon watching strikeout after strikeout.

Batting against Jacob deGrom: NOT FUN!@PatrickWisdom5 pic.twitter.com/0VikiJjKfQ
— Pardon My Take (@PardonMyTake) June 23, 2021

According to Patrick Wisdom of the Cubs, my instincts were right. On the Pardon My Take Podcast, Wisdom was asked 'how much it sucks' to face deGrom. "It was a major suck," Wisdom said. "It's like going into a test knowing you're going to fail. He's just going to overpower you."

I mean, I knew facing off against deGrom wouldn't be a fun task for anyone, but I didn't know he was crushing dreams before pros even step into the box. We're talking about professional hitters after all. I figured they would at least have enough confidence to think they have a fighting chance. Nope, turns out their confidence is as high as mine taking my high school chemistry exams.

No one is on deGrom's level.

"The first pitch I barely even saw," Wisdom added. "It explodes out of his hand and gains speed as it gets to the glove. It was something I've never seen before."

How does a ball pick up speed as it gets to the glove??? deGrom is out here defying physics. They're going to have to re-writer textbooks because of him. Hell, I'd actually read that chapter.

I can't decide if I want to step in the batter's box myself to experience what facing deGrom is like or count my blessings that I never have to. One thing is for sure, I count my blessing that deGrom pitches for my team.