How well will Orioles’ catchers adjust to catching Sugano? | MAILBAG

Question: I’ve read multiple comments on the uniqueness of catching Japanese pitchers and besides the obvious language barrier, what are the challenges or differences with pitchers from Japan? From: Jim Anderson

Answer: I think the language barrier is large, but watching Tomoyuki Sugano in the bullpen, he’s not afraid to motion to catchers about where his pitches are going to be thrown.

Japanese pitchers tend not to throw as hard as other major league pitchers. They emphasize movement, location and control. The ball used in the United States is slightly larger, so they have to get used to it. I think it’s harder for the pitchers to adjust than the catchers.

Question: I know MASN is a hot mess and that there are court cases involved. But I hear no questions for David Rubenstein or O’s management about how they see this getting resolved or fitting in with the larger streaming issues MLB is grappling with. What are people hearing about possible outcomes and timelines? From: Tom Taylor

Answer: Tom, you are correct. It is a hot mess, and there are court cases involved. MLB commissioner Rob Manfred’s aim is to get teams involved in a large-scale streaming package. Fewer people are subscribing to cable, and over the next two-to-three years, many cable contracts will end, and then MLB can offer streaming of many teams.

As for the Orioles, we have heard reports of streaming products offered. Last year, they streamed games on FUBO. If they offer a stand-alone streaming package, it might mean you’ll have to buy Nationals games, too, which many Orioles fans don’t have any interest in.

Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.