Daniel Palencia has emerged as a key player in Venezuela’s bullpen during the World Baseball Classic (WBC). His impressive fastballs and sharp sliders have made him a standout performer. As a closer for the Chicago Cubs, Palencia looks up to Johan Santana, who is serving as a pitching coach for the Venezuelan national team.
Inspiration from Johan Santana
Johan Santana, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, has influenced many players. His achievements in Major League Baseball (MLB) have earned him a revered status. Palencia admitted to being a fan of Santana. He stated, “Johan has a lot of influence. From day one, we have meetings before stretches where we discuss the game and batters.”
Learning and Growth
At 25 years old, Palencia acknowledges that he is still learning the dynamics of the game. He emphasized the importance of working on his control. In 2025, his fastball reached speeds of 102 mph. “With that kind of velocity, control can be challenging, but I worked on mechanics and trained like a sprinter,” he explained.
Venezuela’s World Baseball Classic Performance
- Palencia is the first choice for the ninth inning under manager Omar López.
- He has achieved two saves during the WBC, showcasing near-perfect performance.
- Palencia struck out seven batters in 4.0 innings, allowing only two to reach base.
Palencia shared his enthusiasm for being part of the national team. “This is a dream come true. I’ve wanted this ever since I watched the last World Baseball Classic,” he said. Santana has instilled a positive mindset within the team, urging them to enjoy the game and believe in their abilities.
Acknowledgment from the Chicago Cubs
Palencia’s performance has caught the attention of his MLB manager, Craig Counsell. According to reporter Jordan Bastian from MLB.com, Counsell expressed satisfaction with what Palencia has demonstrated. He mentioned that this experience is invaluable for the young pitcher.
Overall, Daniel Palencia’s growth as a player and his respect for Johan Santana highlight the process of learning and development in professional baseball. His journey in the WBC is both a personal and a national achievement.
