Astros pitcher Luis Garcia reacts to dropping signature windup due to MLB rule change

MLB implemented several new rules in the offseason. Pitchers are now restricted to two motions in their windup. They are only allowed one step back and then one step forward. 

The new rules also include a pitch timer that limits the amount of time pitchers have while they are on the mound. They will have to start their motion 15 seconds after receiving the ball with bases empty. They will have 20 seconds with runners on base. They will be charged with an automatic ball if they go over time.  

Garcia, along with other Astros pitchers, will have to take on a bigger role with the loss of three-time Cy Young winner Justin Verlander in the offseason. The 26-year-old will have to do so while putting together a new pitching routine that doesn’t affect his performance and ultimately help the Astros get back to the World Series.

During Astros’ spring training, Garcia spoke to the media and addressed the change that forced him to reevaluate his windup. 

“I basically changed my delivery. I asked for clarification and stuff to know what I cannot do and what I can do,” Garcia said. “I spent like two weeks trying to figure out how to do it without doing [my old windup] and I think I'm okay right now so let’s see.”

Since his debut in 2020, Garcia’s unique delivery helped him become a staple in the Astros’ rotation. In the 2022 regular season, he went 15-8 with 157 strikeouts. Garcia contributed to the Astros’ dominant pitching in last season's playoffs. During the 5.2 innings he played, Garcia posted a 1.59 ERA with 6 strikeouts. The Astros went on to win their second World Series title in franchise history.