Richard Guasch started the year hurt in the Baltimore Orioles farm system, but recovered and finished the season on a strong note at Chesapeake (AA). The flamethrowing right-hander struck out 42 batters in 29⅔ innings and posted 5 holds.
Last season after a successful season in the Detroit Tigers farm system, the hurler signed with the Estrellas Orientales. But after inking a minor league deal with the Baltimore Orioles, the signing included an invitation to camp. This season Guasch reported early to camp and expects to have a major role in the team’s bullpen.
Armed with a high 90’s fastball and array of sharp secondary pitches except the current free agent to be highly sought after especially if he has immaculate winter in the LIDOM with San Pedro de Macorís. The righty is represented by Gladys Alonso of A&F Sports.
How is your health now after dealing with an injury this year?
Thank God, I’m healthy now. The injury set me back a little at the start of the season, but I was able to finish strong and get good results.
You signed with the Estrellas Orientales. When will you report to the team?
I’ll report on September 23 for preseason training. I want to get to know the team and use that time to be ready from day one.
You signed with them last year but didn’t pitch. The year before, you pitched in Venezuela. What similarities and differences do you see between hitters in the two leagues?
I couldn’t play last year. The team got me ready, and I was active for just one day, but I didn’t pitch. I have experience in Venezuela and Mexico. From what I’ve heard, the hitting in the Dominican league is similar to Venezuela’s. The quality of the hitters is very good, though people say it’s a little more concentrated in the Dominican league.
I did well in Venezuela and was able to make adjustments while facing so many talented players, including MLB players and prospects. Mexico is another difficult league for pitchers, and I got good results there too. I’m ready for what’s ahead.
Last year you were in the Detroit organization, and this year you were with Baltimore. Tell me about those experiences.
Last year was tremendous. My time in Mexico and then with the Tigers was exceptional. Thank God, we reached the playoffs and the final, and I played an important part throughout the season. It was a great experience with a winning team.
I then signed a contract that included an invitation to Orioles camp, and my experience with them has also been very good. Even though I started on the injured list, they treated me incredibly well. I did well in the limited time I was able to pitch, and we were competing for a playoff spot. Overall, both experiences have been great.
Will you return to the Orioles next year?
We don’t know yet. My agent and I are weighing our options and deciding what we’ll do. It’s still too early to say anything for certain.
What role will you have with the Estrellas when you report?
There isn’t a specific role yet. We’ll see when I arrive. For now, the plan is for me to pitch a lot and take on an important role, perhaps in a particular inning. That will depend on the manager once he sees me. I think we’ll discuss it during preseason training.
Several Cubans will be your teammates on the Estrellas. Have you spoken with any of them?
No, not yet. I’ve heard there will be quite a few Cubans, though, and it’ll be great to have so many of my countrymen together.
Will you use your time with the Estrellas to prepare for Spring Training, wherever that may be?
One hundred percent. I’m going to make the most of the league and enjoy it. I’m very excited and happy that the Estrellas have given me another opportunity.
Do you have any goals for the winter?
One specific goal is to earn an important role with the team and reach the Round Robin. Ultimately, we’re going to try to win and help the team. I love winning, and the team’s results are what matter most.