Carlos Guzman Refines Pitching Mechanics Following World Baseball Classic Advice
Venezuelan right-hander Carlos Guzman has posted a 2-0 record across his first three relief appearances for the Tigres de Aragua, Lider en deportes reported. The 28-year-old reliever credits a developmental turning point to advice received from Johan Santana during the World Baseball Classic.
Adjustments Learned From Johan Santana at the World Baseball Classic
Guzman served as a reinforcement selection for the World Baseball Classic, an experience that culminated in a championship run and firsthand instruction from Santana, who worked as the pitching coach. Santana advised the Maracay native to stick to his established pitch arsenal while focusing strictly on mechanical refinement, specifically addressing his delivery rhythm and downward posture.
Guzman told Lider en deportes that he did not change the pitches he has always had, noting that Santana only told him to work on his mechanics, how to improve his rhythm, and how to improve his downward posture, which is where he has focused the most.
Relief Role and Minor League Experience With the Tigers, Cubs, and Mets
Entering his winter league campaign with Aragua, Guzman has sharpened his approach against left-handed hitters while solidifying his role in the bullpen. Having spent seasons in the minor leagues since 2017 across organizations including Tigres, Cubs, and Mets, Guzman reached Double-A, where he recorded a 6-2 record and a 3.17 earned run average across 40 relief outings.
Approach Against Veteran Batters in the Venezuelan League
Guzman said his pitching strategy does not change when experienced major league position players join winter league rosters. He said he is ready to pitch in high-pressure bullpen situations as either a setup man or closer, depending on the Tigres de Aragua's decisions.
