InDepth Spotlight: Paul Maholm vs. Ryan Braun

2008-Present (Click to enlarge image)

Paul Maholm (0-1, 2.19 ERA) takes the mound for the Pittsburgh Pirates today at PNC Park.  Since 2008, the lefty has held opposing right-handed batters to .246 average on his curve, arguably the best pitch in his arsenal.  Ryan Braun has hit .229 against lefty curves since 2008, his lowest average among all pitches with a minimum of 50 pitches seen.  That pitch might be the key for Maholm as he tries to retire the powerful Braun in tonight's game.

Braun generates most of his power up in the zone, so Maholm would do well to avoid leaving his fastball up as well, especially considering righties have hit .316 with a .490 slugging percentage off it since 2008.