As much as baseball TV commentators talk about slow pace, they also go on about breaking up the rhythm of the starter if he's going quickly. Stepping out of the box, making the pitcher wait, getting him out of his "groove".
I've no scientific data or anything for this, but it would seem to me that a pitcher who goes FASTER than the batter is prepared for would throw them off more. When I was drag racing (a LONG time ago) I always wanted to be the first to stage. It didn't bother me to wait an extra moment or two for the other guy, but I when I was second to stage I always felt a little rushed - sometimes the starter began the tree faster than I wanted and I didn't have as good a reaction time.
Like I said, no data, just what worked for (or against) me.
Brent
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