Tyler Naquin is making headlines once again, but this time not for his prowess in the outfield. The former major league outfielder, who spent the 2024 season on the sidelines, is embarking on an ambitious comeback as a pitcher.
This decision, sparked by a casual conversation with a friend in a parking lot, has set Naquin on a rigorous path to transition from outfielder to pitcher. A move that has garnered significant attention and support from his family and the Cleveland Guardians organization. Naquin’s journey is a testament to his determination and the unwavering support from those around him.
The Spark of a New Beginning
In January of last year, Tyler Naquin experienced an epiphany that would change the course of his career. While sitting with his friend, Clay Tillman, outside a gym in College Station, Texas, Naquin voiced his desire to take the mound.
This moment marked the beginning of his journey from an eight-year major league outfielder to a hopeful big league pitcher.
Early Days of Transition
Naquin’s initial steps towards becoming a pitcher were simple yet significant. He started by playing catch with Tillman, a routine that quickly became a daily commitment.
Naquin’s family also played a crucial role in his early days of transition, with his brother often joining him to keep his arm in shape. If we were anywhere, my brother would play catch with me, Naquin shared, emphasizing the importance of consistent practice.
Commitment to the Comeback
Determined to make his dream a reality, Naquin dedicated himself to a rigorous workout program and sought feedback from ex-players and coaches.
His efforts culminated in a pro day for scouts in January, which yielded positive results. The Cleveland Guardians, a team known for their exceptional pitching development, became the obvious choice for Naquin’s comeback.
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Choosing the Guardians
Naquin’s familiarity with the Guardians and their reputation for getting the most out of their pitching prospects made them the ideal team for his comeback. My agent had reached out to teams and I was very adamant on reaching out here (Cleveland), Naquin explained.
His persistence paid off when a scout came to watch one of his bullpen sessions, leading to a minor league contract with the Guardians.
Challenges and Learning Curves
Transitioning from an outfielder to a pitcher is no small feat. Naquin acknowledged the unique challenges that come with pitching, including the different toll it takes on the body and the need for a completely different ramp-up session.
Despite these challenges, Naquin’s respect for pitchers and his commitment to learning the routines that would put him in the best position to succeed have kept him motivated.
Developing Pitching Skills
Naquin’s fastball, which tops out at 97 mph, is a testament to his arm strength. However, he emphasized that the hardest part is not the arm strength but learning how to use it efficiently.
The hardest part wasn’t the arm strength, it’s learning how to use it, Naquin said. He has been working on developing the feel and efficiency to move down the slope, a crucial aspect of pitching.
Support from the Guardians
The Cleveland Guardians have been instrumental in Naquin’s transition to pitching. Known for their top-notch pitching development, the Guardians have provided Naquin with the resources and support he needs to succeed.
Naquin expressed his gratitude for being in an environment where pitchers are treated well and development is prioritized.
Learning New Pitch Grips
As part of his development, Naquin has been experimenting with new pitch grips. He currently throws a changeup and a cutter, and he enjoys working on new grips to see what works best for him.
This experimentation is expected to continue as he works closely with Cleveland’s player development staff.
Looking Ahead
Naquin’s journey is far from over, but his determination and the support from the Guardians have put him in a promising position.
He is focused on finding the routine that works best for him and continuing to develop his pitching skills. It’s just figuring out what works for me, what routine works for me in order to project me forward fastest and safest and smartest way possible, Naquin said.
A Recipe for Success
With his fastball velocity and the support of a top-notch development team, Naquin is optimistic about his future as a pitcher.
I’m thankful to be somewhere from what I’ve heard is number one in pitching development and just treating their pitchers how they should be treated, he said.
The combination of familiarity, support, and development resources creates a good recipe for success, and Naquin believes he is in a great spot to achieve his goals.
For more details on Tyler Naquin’s inspiring journey, you can read the full article on how Tyler Naquin landed on the comeback trail with the Guardians.
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