Glavine and Maddux both said they won't pitch up in the zone. They're not alone. Mets ace Al Leiter said. Houston closer Billy Wagner, whose pitches hit 99 mph, said he will be careful with the high throw. I have to pitch in and out, and use the inside of the plate.
Most pitchers agree if there is a different zone, it had little, if any, impact.
Glavine said he hasn't seen much of a difference. He believes umpires who have their own strike zones aren't going to change and conform to one. Major League Baseball is insisting they will, and will review umpires throughout the season. Many catchers have become adept at easing pitches across the plate as they catch them. Still, many believe the new zone will help pitchers.