As we gear up for the 108th PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club, there's more to consider than just the stunning scenery and challenging layout. In this article, I'll delve into three key stats that could be the difference between victory and defeat, offering a unique perspective on the tournament.
The Green Machine
One thing that immediately stands out to me is the sheer size of Aronimink's greens. With an average size of 8,200 sq/ft, these putting surfaces are a far cry from the compact greens at Pebble Beach. This presents a unique challenge for the players, especially when it comes to speed control and lag putting.
In my opinion, the ability to master these large greens will be a decisive factor. Take Keegan Bradley's win at the BMW Championship here in 2018; his putting prowess accounted for a whopping 62% of his strokes gained. Good putting could be the edge that separates the champions from the rest. However, the severity of these green complexes might make finding a consistent stroke a daunting task.
Iron Man Strength
Moving beyond the greens, let's talk about iron play. Aronimink's traditional layout demands precision and versatility with irons. While we won't see many mid-iron approaches, there will be a plethora of wedge shots and long irons, particularly on the par 3s.
Combining elite proximity with scoring irons and the ability to execute shots over 215 yards will be crucial. In 2018, the field hit an impressive 77.4% of their GIRs, which is significantly above the TOUR average. This stat highlights the importance of iron play and proximity in narrowing down the field of contenders.
Par 4 Power
A detail that I find especially interesting is the absence of two par 5s at Aronimink, resulting in a par 70 total. This unique setup tests the players' prowess on par 4s, with a variety of lengths and challenges. Scottie Scheffler, who leads the PGA TOUR in par 4 scoring, will be one to watch.
The ability to navigate the diverse par 4s, from the reachable 13th to the lengthy 15th, will be a defining factor in determining the champion. It's a testament to the strategic thinking that goes into course design and the skills required to conquer such a layout.
Final Thoughts
With 180 bunkers, uneven lies, and a tough closing stretch, the PGA Championship at Aronimink promises an exciting spectacle. These three key stats - putting prowess, iron precision, and par 4 mastery - will undoubtedly play a significant role in determining the winner.
So, as you watch the tournament unfold, keep an eye on these factors and see if your predictions align with the outcome. It's an intriguing battle of skills and strategies, and I, for one, can't wait to see how it plays out!
