Full Breakdown
Carson Whisenhunt Shines with Impressive Velocity in Simulated Game
2/20/2026, 1:10:13 PM
Whisenhunt's Performance Highlights
During a recent simulated game at Scottsdale Stadium, Carson Whisenhunt, a left-handed pitcher for the San Francisco Giants, showcased remarkable improvement in his pitching velocity. Whisenhunt recorded a fastball reaching 97 mph, a significant increase from his previous average of 92.6 mph during his five starts in the 2025 season. In this outing, he successfully retired seven of the eight batters he faced, striking out notable players such as Jesus Rodriguez and Bo Davidson with his signature changeup. Whisenhunt expressed confidence in his performance, stating, “I’m feeling a lot better than I did last year... everything’s just kind of flowing right now.”
Velocity Evolution and Pitching Mechanics
Whisenhunt's enhanced velocity can be attributed to adjustments in his pitching mechanics. He noted that he had previously struggled with his back hip positioning, which he believed hindered his velocity. By adopting a more upright stance and focusing on proper hip movement, he aims to consistently maintain a fastball velocity in the 94-95 mph range, similar to his performance in 2023 when he peaked at 98 mph. In addition to velocity improvements, Whisenhunt has incorporated a cutter into his pitching repertoire and is refining his slider to enhance its movement.
Addressing Past Challenges
Whisenhunt's journey has not been without challenges. He acknowledged that he had been tipping his pitches, a mistake that became apparent after a game against the Chicago Cubs in August 2025. Despite this setback, he managed to secure a win in that game, which he views as a confidence booster. Whisenhunt emphasized the importance of learning from past experiences, stating, “I had success, I had failure, so I’m looking at it as, ‘What can I do better during spring training to push me to get back up there?’”
Competition Among Pitchers
Whisenhunt was not the only pitcher making headlines during the simulated game. Right-hander Gregory Santos also impressed by reaching 100 mph while retiring all four batters he faced. Santos, who made his MLB debut with the Giants in 2021, is returning to camp as a non-roster invitee after a solid performance with the Chicago White Sox in 2023, where he posted a 3.39 ERA over 66 1/3 innings.
Conclusion
Carson Whisenhunt's recent performance in the simulated game signals a promising trajectory for the young pitcher as he seeks to secure a spot on the Giants' roster. His improved velocity and refined pitching mechanics, coupled with the competitive atmosphere among his peers, position him well for the upcoming season. As Whisenhunt continues to build on his skills, he remains focused on overcoming past challenges and making a significant impact in the majors.
