Honored to Compete in the World Baseball Classic
Jose Quintana, a talented left-handed pitcher, is no stranger to the spotlight, and this time, he steps into it with pride, representing Colombia in the World Baseball Classic. As he prepares to face the United States on Friday at Marlins Park, Quintana is focused not only on the game but also on the joy of having his family and friends traveling to Miami to cheer him on.
High Stakes at the World Baseball Classic
The World Baseball Classic runs through March 22, with live broadcasts in the United States on MLB Network and streaming options available on MLB.TV. Fans can also catch the games in Spanish on ESPN Deportes. Quintana’s debut against the U.S. all-star lineup, featuring players like Nolan Arenado and Giancarlo Stanton, promises to be an intense showdown. “This is an honor for me,” Quintana expressed after a workout at CenturyLink Sports Complex, the Minnesota Twins’ spring training facility. “I’m really excited about this tournament. This is our first time participating, and everyone is looking forward to it.”
A Season of Opportunity
Quintana’s performance in the Classic comes at a critical point in his career. With many teams showing interest in acquiring him throughout the season, he’s eager to showcase his skills. After the Chicago White Sox traded stars like Chris Sale and Adam Eaton, Quintana became a top target on the trade market. His impressive 3.41 ERA over nearly 1,000 innings has made him a valuable asset.
Facing a Tough Challenge
While Quintana’s start in the Classic is an important opportunity, it also presents a challenge. Jim Leyland, the U.S. team manager, acknowledged the difficulty of facing Quintana. “He’s really good. I’ve seen it firsthand,” Leyland said. “He’s a talented pitcher, and going up against him is always a challenge.” The White Sox’s acquisition of Quintana is considered one of their best moves since winning the 2005 World Series. He was only 22 when he became a free agent with the Yankees, and the White Sox quickly signed him despite his limited minor league experience.
Consistency and Control
Quintana has demonstrated remarkable consistency, pitching at least 200 innings each season for the past four years. His calm demeanor on the mound has contributed to his impressive stats, consistently ranking him among the top pitchers in Wins Above Replacement (WAR). However, he has struggled to accumulate wins, finishing the 2016 season with a 13-12 record, marking his first double-digit winning season.
A Bright Future for Colombia
As Quintana prepares for the game, he believes in his team’s potential. “I have faith in this team. We have a lot of talent here, and the energy is fantastic,” he said. Alongside fellow Colombian pitcher Julio Teheran, Quintana is determined to help Colombia advance to the next round in San Diego. Quintana’s approach remains focused: “Just attack the zone and trust your defense, especially with the pitch limit. That’s my focus.” While defeating the U.S. would be a major accomplishment for Colombian baseball, he sees this as a chance to elevate his country’s presence in the sport.
“This is a great opportunity for Colombia,” Quintana said. “People will get to know our country through baseball.” With scouts from various teams watching, Quintana isn’t just a trade prospect; he’s a symbol of Colombian pride on the international stage.
