Only the die-hard baseball fans probably even know there IS a Venezuelan Winter League going on right now. And yes, the Angels have some players staying warm in the Caribbean. Most notably – Left handed pitcher Jose Alvarez and new backup catcher – Carlos Perez.
Alvarez is tearing up the mound with a league leading 6 wins. He is showing some control as well with a 1.02 WHIP and 1.74 ERA. Alvarez has seen time starting (6 appearances) and in relief (12 appearances). Overall, he is impresses down south and hopefully that bodes well come spring.
Carlos Perez was not overly impressive in the Pacific league this past year though he did have a .709 OPS. in Venezuela is showing some wood with a very impressive .896 OPS and .373 OBP. No stats on his fielding skills, but he has to be at least as equal to Conger in throwing out runners and his hitting, at least currently, looks like it could be a nice upgrade in the backup spot.
