The San Diego Padres' relief pitcher Nabil Crismatt is representing his country of Columbia in the World Baseball Classic. He has had a rollercoaster professional career due to injuries and has had limited opportunities to showcase his full talent.
Crismatt saw most of his playing time on the mound come when other pitchers ahead of him in the pecking order got injured and his number was called. His path in the WBC has gone a similar route as key injuries have opened up a potential chance at him inserting into the starting rotation for Columbia.
Few were more excited for Crismatt's opportunity than Padres manager Bob Melvin. He spoke to media about what this starting spot could mean for Crismatt, as provided by '97.3 The Fan.'
"I think it'll be great for him and who knows," said Melvin. "Down the road he gives us such flexibility. There was a game last year where Blake went down in the bullpen right before the game. He spot-starts and does beautifully. I mean, he has the ability to do just about anything and there's very few guys that can do it like that so I know he's embracing the starting role."
If nothing else, Crismatt stays ready for any opportunity that comes his way. He went through a few slumps in 2022 but did turn up for some key performances that helped the Friars make a playoff push at the end of the season.
Crismatt will have the chance to play a bigger role during this international tournament and Melvin hopes it will get him ready for when he checks him into some big games. Representing one's country is no joke so be prepared for Crismatt to bring his A-game.
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