Carrillo Learns Through Experience

September 9, 2008   ·   Patrick Hickey, Jr.   ·   Jump to comments

The Brooklyn Cyclones bullpen not only played an influential role in the team’s 45-30 record this season, some would say it was the heart and soul of the team. Featuring charismatic youngsters like Jimmy Johnson, Yury Santana and Erik Turgeon, the pen had plenty of fire to throw at the opposition. However, a player like Matias Carrillo, who kept to himself on the bench most of the season was equally as successful. Going 1-0 with a 2.45 ERA in 15 appearances this season, Carrillo was a big time contributor in long relief for Brooklyn this season and got the Mets Single-A affiliate out of several tough spots. Chatting with DemBrooklynBums.com during the team’s last home stand last week, Carrillo reflected on his season and spoke about his success and what he needs to improve to get to higher levels in the organization.

DemBrooklynBums.com: What kind of affect has pitching coach Hector Berrios had on your game?

Matias Carrillo: He’s helped me a lot mentally this season. Many times I came into games this season with us being ahead by one-run and it’s stressful out there. You can’t make mistakes. Every once in a while, I’d have to come in and pitch three or four innings and as the season went on, I got really relaxed out there. I think he had a lot to do with that.

DBB: Considering that you haven’t pitched at Keyspan much this season, many fans may still be unfamiliar with your game. Can you tell us what pitches you throw?

Carrillo: Two-seam Fastball, curve ball, sinker and changeup. I use either my changeup or the sinker as my out pitch. My fastball is only 86-89, but I get good movement.

DBB: Because of your role in the bullpen this season and the fact that you rely more on command than most of the other pitchers on the staff, did you feel you were under a lot of pressure to succeed this season?

Carrillo: I wouldn’t say it was pressure, I just knew I had a job to do. Like I said before, you come into the game in a really tough situation and all you can do is get the outs. It felt good when I did.

DBB: Have you had a good time with the guys this season?

Carrillo: I had a lot of fun with these guys this season, the chemistry was great and everyone got along well.

DBB: What was your favorite moment of this season?

Carrillo: There was this one time in Aberdeen when I came in with one out and the bases loaded. I struck out the only two hitters I faced. It was a great feeling.

DBB: Do you think the coaching staff grew to value what you did out of the pen as the season wore on?

Carrillo: I think so. I think they put me in a good situation to grow and go to higher levels in the organization. I know I have things to work on, like keeping the ball down more and away from hitters, but they gave me an opportunity to pitch a lot and I think I got better. I feel like a different pitcher than I was before.

Photos by Ron Hatcher.