Gregory Soto’s delayed arrival at spring training was worth the wait.
Soto had been dealing with visa issues in the Dominican Republic and he finally was able to throw a simulated game Thursday at the Carpenter Complex.
The results were outstanding and he will now pitch Sunday in a Grapefruit League game.
“The fastball was electric,” Philadelphia Phillies manager Rob Thomson told reporters. “The slider was really good.”
Soto, a two-time All-Star, was acquired in a trade with the Detroit Tigers in January. He’s expected to be part of a closer-by-committee with Seranthony Dominguez, Jose Alvarado and Craig Kimbrel.
Now that Soto is with the Phillies, he can relax and focus on the task at hand.
“I spent a lot of time in the DR,” Soto said. “I was a little worried but I’m glad to be here now.”
The left-handed Soto went 2-11 with a 3.28 ERA and 30 saves last season with the Tigers, making his second consecutive All-Star berth. His four-seam fastball averaged 98.7 miles-per-hour, according to MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki.
Soto is stoked to contribute, no matter the circumstances.
“I don’t have to have a role,” Soto said. “I can pitch in any inning. Whenever they need me, I’ll be ready for them.”
Soto’s command wasn’t as crisp last season as he struck out 60 but walked 34 in 60 1/3 innings.
“I love to be in a place where I can get better,” Soto said. “Obviously, I’m not perfect. I can use some help with the strike zone. So, yeah, I’m down for any guidance that they can give me.”
The Phillies parted with Matt Vierling, Nick Maton and Donny Sands to acquire Soto and Kody Clemens.
Did the Phillies give up a lot? Yes.
But it was a trade worth making. You can never have enough pitching.
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