Spring Training Q&A: Carlos Gutierrez

also available at www.SethSpeaks.net –

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When the Twins used the 27^th overall pick in the 2008 draft on University of Miami pitcher Carlos Gutierrez, they were roundly criticized, much as they were when they selected OF Ben Revere in 2007. Since then, Gutierrez has done his best job of making the Twins look very smart. Although he had Tommy John surgery in 2007, Gutierrez was the Hurricane’s closer in 2008 and led them to the College World Series. After signing with the Twins, he went to Ft. Myers and pitched out of their bullpen. But the plan was to move him back in to the starting rotation. In 2009, he began as a starter in Ft. Myers and did very well. He was promoted to AA New Britain and really struggled. In a SethSpeaks.net podcast a few weeks ago, he said that he started thinking too much rather than trusting his stuff which is why his walk total was uncharacteristically high. Part of the reason was that he had not thrown that many innings. Gutierrez throws 95 mph with sink. He’s got good stuff. The question is whether he will be a starter or a reliever over time. That type of decision may be made based on 2010.

Here is a Q&A with Twins pitcher, Carlos Gutierrez! (To see all previous SethSpeaks.net Q&As, click here) (and feel free to leave questions or comments here)

…Let the Questions Begin!

SethSpeaks: Now that you’ve had a few months to look back and reflect, what are your thoughts on your 2009 season? What did it feel like to get back on the mound after missing a couple of seasons?

Carlos Gutierrez: The 2009 season was a success for me. Being my first full season in pro ball and getting adjusted to playing everyday. I know that I can handle the demanding schedule as it was double what I was used to playing in college.

SethSpeaks: What do you do when you’re not playing baseball or working out in preparation for the upcoming season?

Carlos Gutierrez: When I am not working out or doing anything baseball related, I take time to be with family and friends as much as possible.

SethSpeaks: When did you start getting ready for the 2010 season, and what was your routine?

Carlos Gutierrez: After last season ended, I took a couple of weeks off doing nothing. Rest is important after doing so much during the season. When those 2 weeks were up I got back to work hitting the gym four to five times a week.

SethSpeaks: What are your goals for the 2010 season? Where would you like to play, and are there any statistics that you are looking to improve?

Carlos Gutierrez: Being my second season I want to build on what I did last year. I want to maintain the same level of effectiveness for an entire season and be more consistent.

SethSpeaks:  What does spring training mean for you, and what are you looking forward to this year?

Carlos Gutierrez: Spring training is a time to get back into the swing of things. Start seeing batters again and work on things making sure we are ready for the new season.

SethSpeaks: Who was your favorite player to watch when you were growing up? What team did you grow up watching and cheering for?

Carlos Gutierrez: Growing up I didn’t really have a favorite player. I was more of a college fan. 

SethSpeaks: Leading into the draft, where were you hearing you might be drafted? Were you surprised the Twins drafted you?

Carlos Gutierrez: I didn’t really know where I would be picked in the draft but I did know there were a number of teams that really liked me. The Twins being one of them.

SethSpeaks: Best thing of career in baseball?

Carlos Gutierrez: Best thing about a career in baseball is traveling to different parts of the U.S. or in some cases the world.

SethSpeaks:  Toughest thing about career in baseball?

Carlos Gutierrez: Toughest thing is the time away from family.

SethSpeaks: Funniest story in your minor league career?

Carlos Gutierrez: Can’t think of any moment in specific, but we do have a lot of fun with jokes and pranks we play on each other.

SethSpeaks: What would it mean to make your big league debut?

Carlos Gutierrez: Making my big league debut would mean all the time and hard work put in has paid off. Not only for me but for everyone that has helped me along the way.

A huge “thank you” to Carlos Gutierrez for taking time to respond. If you would like, you can e-mail me, or feel free to leave your comments here.