Jose Vaquedano
Former Boston Red Sox AAA RHP
1. Could you tell us your story on dropping down?
The Reason I dropped down was because I had a bad season as a started in 06 with the Portland Seadogs and when Spring Training came around the organization decided a changed was needed and of course I went along with it.
2. What are some of the advantages you had from your arm angle?
Some of the advantages was the fastball movement. My ground ball % sky rocket. The struggle was against lefties which it was a huge adjustment that took over a year. The change up was the most difficult pitch throw but when it started to come around I was able to get lefties out at a higher rate.
3. If you didn't drop down, do you think you would have had the same success?
I think I still had the stuff to compete in AA and AAA over the top but If I would of rejected the offer on dropping down I would of gotten released since I was drafted on the 35th round.
4. What would you tell someone debating on changing their arm angle?
N/A
5. Are there any mechanical tips that you'd give to someone throwing sidearm/submarine?
The pitching coach in AA always said act like your getting a tennis ball just below the waist and same rule applies on staying close and taking your front side to the target.
6. What pitches did you throw?
I threw a sinker, slider, and change up from down there.
7. How did you pitch to lefties/righties?
On righties I used to start my sinker right down the middle and let it work down and in and then used my slider if I really needed a K or to change it up. I threw my FastBall about 85% of the time to righties and lefties. My off speed was just to mixed up but I lived with my sinker.
8. Lastly what was your favorite part about pitching from down there?
I guess I really enjoyed pitching from down there in winter ball cause they use me as a specialist on righties. Is a working progress and I worked hard everyday by myself doing towel drills, shadow work, working on grips on the change up. I felt like in 09 I really got it going in Tripe A but I never got the called up or another chance after that. I had a job in 2010 but it was for independent ball and I just felt at that time in my life I had to go a different way in my life and decided to call it quits.