Adam Dunn and Pitch Velocity

Over at SBNation, Rob Neyer takes a look at a few questions facing the Chicago White Sox going into this season.  He noted that the acquisition of Adam Dunn fills a big hole at DH for the Sox.  Dunn is a tremendous power hitter who strikes out a ton, but when he makes contact, he can put the ball in orbit.  His 35.7% K-rate was the second worst in the majors last year, while his .536 slugging percentage was 10th best.

Dunn, like many left handed power hitters, does well against fastballs.

Adam Dunn, 2008-10

Over the last 3 years, Dunn's contact rate against fastballs was 19.7% better than against off-speed pitches.  As indicated above, Dunn's swing rate increases against pitches with more velocity.  And his contact and slugging percentage follow.  That's a sign of a hitter who knows what he likes, and a good sign for the Chicago White Sox.