Baseball has evolved into a game of velocity and spin rate, with pitchers and hitters alike striving for maximum performance. However, as velocity and spin rates increase, so does the risk of injury.

PHOENIX — What was once a rare, eye-popping physical feat in baseball has become more of a requirement. Watching a four-seam fastball pop into the catcher’s mitt and see the radar gun light up with ...

Bauer identified that spin rate meant better pitches, which meant a better chance to succeed and eventually cash in with a handsome pay day. He has not had Tommy John surgery, but after MLB’s ...