Colorado Rockies Catcher Wilin Rosario looking to up his defensive game- MLB News
Colorado Rockies rookie catcher Wilin Rosario is looking to strengthen his defensive game behind the plate after a sensational season with the bat but a mixed one with the glove. He was the leading catcher in the Major League in passed balls with 21.
The 23-year-old is utilising the off-season to hone his catching skills and is looking to make a strong comeback behind the plate in 2013.
"I'm going to put all my emphasis, and I'm going to do everything I can do to be the best behind the plate," Rosario said. "It's a matter of time. Remember that I told you that. You'll see what's going to happen."
He is currently in Dominican Republic, where he initially worked on his catching basics in Boca Chica at a Rockies’ facility. He is also taking part in the Dominican Winter League and is a part of Aguilas Cibaenas. The team has Alberto Castillo as a coach
who was a very good defensive catcher during his 12 seasons in the Major League. The team is managed by Tony Pena, a former All-Star catcher himself, which will mean that Wilin will have plenty of expert advice readily available.
Rosario is motivated and ready to take the challenge head on to improve his catching skills. He is not very happy with how things went defensively during the 2012 season.
"Sometimes when I hear people talking about my defense, I feel bad about myself because a lot of things happened during the year," he said. "But I know that next year things are going to be different with my defense. I know how to work. I know what I need.
I know now how I can control it. I am motivated."
Rockies Manager Walt Weiss is confident that the young catcher will turn it around.
"I truly believe this guy is going to be a star, and not only because he hits home runs but because he's got the ability to shut down the running game, too," Walt Said.
This is Wilin’s first real stint in the Majors. Previously he had mainly been a catcher at a Double-A level and with time should get hold of the skills needed to be a permanent feature at the highest level. With his batting skills and good catching ability,
he will be a highly sort after player in the MLB.
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