Reese Olson has quickly become a major topic of conversation among Detroit Tigers fans and baseball analysts alike. As a talented right-hander, Olson’s evolution on the mound has made him a pivotal piece in the Tigers' rotation. This article dives into what sets Reese Olson apart, exploring his pitch mix, growth, and the influence of veteran teammates on his breakout performance.

The Rise of Reese Olson

Following a solid rookie season, Reese Olson entered the new campaign with heightened expectations. His early performances showed both development and a deeper understanding of his strengths on the mound. Olson’s awareness of his pitch arsenal, especially his ability to adjust usage based on hitter tendencies, has put him on the path to becoming a standout MLB starter.

Pitch Arsenal: More Than Just a Fastball

What truly distinguishes Reese Olson is the variety and effectiveness of his pitch mix. While many young pitchers rely primarily on velocity, Olson has crafted a repertoire built on deception and movement. According to an in-depth analysis from Pitcher List, Olson’s slider and changeup are the true stars of his arsenal. His slider, now with more vertical movement and a “gyro-curve” look, poses problems for hitters from both sides of the plate. The changeup, however, is gaining the most attention for its devastating effectiveness.

Olson’s unique release point and command make his changeup one of the toughest pitches to hit in baseball. He mimics his fastball delivery perfectly, creating extra deception. The result? Even experienced hitters have a hard time picking up the pitch, often swinging over the top as it dives below the zone.

The Tarik Skubal Influence

The Detroit Tigers have become known for developing pitchers with outstanding off-speed offerings. Tarik Skubal, the team’s ace, has set the example with a dominant changeup that is among the best in the game. Now, Reese Olson is following in Skubal’s footsteps, using the same weapon with increasing success.

A recent feature from Sports Illustrated highlights how Olson’s changeup boasts an eye-popping whiff rate, baffling opposing batters. The Tigers’ coaching staff is encouraging Olson to throw the changeup even more, building off what has already made him so effective in 2025. Adopting Skubal’s model, Olson keeps hitters guessing and limits hard contact, which has led to a string of scoreless outings this season.

For more insights into how Skubal’s approach is shaping the Tigers’ new wave of pitching, check out this MLB News article.

Making the Next Big Leap

As Reese Olson continues to refine his approach, there is ongoing discussion about how he can maximize his potential. Pitch analysts suggest increasing changeup usage even further and making nuanced adjustments to his sinker placement could push Olson to another level. Minor tweaks—rather than wholesale changes—are likely all that’s left between Olson and a breakout year.

Critically, Olson doesn’t need to reinvent his game; rather, small refinements could allow every pitch in his arsenal to shine. His ability to limit damaging contact and rack up strikeouts point to a future as a reliable, upper-rotation starter for Detroit.

Conclusion: Reese Olson’s Bright Future in Detroit

Reese Olson is at the forefront of a new Tigers pitching wave. His command, pitch variety, and willingness to learn from teammates like Tarik Skubal are transforming him into one of the most exciting young arms in baseball. As he continues to evolve, Tigers fans have every reason to be optimistic about Olson’s future—and the team’s direction on the mound.

Stay tuned for more updates as Reese Olson’s story unfolds. For deeper technical breakdowns of his pitch arsenal, don’t miss the comprehensive review over at Pitcher List.