Previously relying on a five-pitch mix that leaned primarily on his four-seam fastball and sweeper, Black refined his repertoire this offseason. The adjustment, along with support from the Royals’ pitching staff, has helped him settle into his new organization.
Black worked with assistant pitching coach Mike McFerran on his curveball release point, especially when facing left-handed hitters.
“That’s been a big help just getting into this organization, having the support staff around us here,” Black said. “Just [to] take the ball whenever they ask me to, whether that be starting, mid relief, short relief. I’m good with whatever [I have to do] to go out there and try to throw zeros.”