Lendy Castillo a contender for the Chicago Cubs’ bullpen - MLB News
The Chicago Cubs are so far loath to announce the names for the bullpen. Much as the decision is awaited with a tinge of excitement, the Cubs are weighing their options with considerable thought, keeping in focus its short- and long-term impact.
On Tuesday, April 03, one of the names gaining weight and attract attention was that of Lendy Castillo. The 22-year old Castillo – a righty pitcher, has had a good spring, performing well in the Cactus League.
Out of 11 games that this player has appeared in, he has had 3.46 ERA in the 13 innings. What may constitute concern, as far as his induction in the bullpen is concerned, is the fact that he has walked 13 hitters. This – if anything, actually shows the lack of control.
It is pertinent to mention here that the Cubs acquired this player from the Philadelphia Phillies. In the past, he had served as the shortstop, before converting into a pitcher.
Velocity is what he seems to work upon."He's done OK," manager Dale Sveum said the Chicago Cubs’ team manager. "The velocity isn't quite what it was earlier in camp. But he's been pitching a lot more than he probably ever has. That's one thing we've had to eyeball. He had to get built up. If he's going to be in that role, he's going to have to pitch quite a bit."
Bullpen is supposed to be announced at the 11th hour like the team manager has previously put. Dale Sveum has some observations to make for the young pitcher who is aspiring to be part of the regular squad in days to come.
"In the National League, you can't have a guy that's non-usable, so, he's got to be built up to where he could pitch three innings, get to 50-60 pitches once in a while," Sveum said.
As to whether he succeeds in getting a spot in the team is something that needs to be seen. However, if Castillo makes it to the team, it will be a tremendous opportunity for him to show his talent and class as a young player.
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