White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen has been impressed watching Sergio Santos save 18 games in 20 opportunities, but his three perfect innings with six strikeouts for three saves Wednesday through Friday was an eye-opener.
“Cubs and Colorado, that’s the best I’ve seen him throw,” Guillen said Saturday. “I think this kid is going to be better. His breaking ball is going to be better. His stuff is going to increase. He’s going to get a chance to make a lot of money as a closer. He has the right mentality. He has the right stuff. He has learned to throw stirkes. He has everything [going] for him.
Santos, who has allowed one earned run on two hits with 16 strikeouts in his last eight games, was expected to get a needed day of rest, although before the game he said his arm felt good.
In only his third year as a professional pitcher and second in the majors, the converted shortstop has embraced the role with the demeanor of a collected veteran.
“The best thing he has is his mental [approach],” Guillen said. “He has good stuff, but the approach to after the game is great. During the game, every closer is going to be the same. The different thing is who handles it better after the game, good or bad.
“I know he won’t stay like the way he’s pitching right now, because nobody is that good. But he has a chance to be pretty good.”
