SCOTTSDALE — Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez has long admired Johan Santana, the two-time Cy Young winner and fellow Venezuelan southpaw, even wearing jersey number 57 in tribute. That admiration reached a recent level during the recent World Baseball Classic, where Santana served as Venezuela’s pitching coach and worked directly with Rodriguez throughout the tournament.
A Mentorship Realized on the World Stage
Rodriguez recounted the experience, noting the unique circumstance of needing to wear number 52 during the WBC because Santana was already using number 57. “With him was just special,” Rodriguez told Arizona Sports on Saturday. “I learned a lot from him. How to deal with some things during the game, how to change your mentality and all that. So it was an opportunity that I really appreciate to have in my career.”
The connection runs deep. Rodriguez was 13 years aged when Santana won his second Cy Young Award in 2006, leading the league in ERA, WHIP, and strikeouts with his renowned changeup. He watched Santana’s final game in 2012, as he began his own minor league career. Rodriguez considers Santana’s changeup unmatched, and credits the veteran with imparting valuable lessons about the mental side of the game.
Looking Ahead to the Regular Season
With Santana watching from the dugout, Rodriguez delivered a strong performance in the championship game, helping Venezuela secure its historic victory. He described his performance as simply “executing,” finding a rhythm that allowed him to pitch effectively until his manager removed him from the game.
The Diamondbacks are counting on Rodriguez to carry that momentum into the regular season, where he is scheduled to start at Dodger Stadium on Saturday. The team is in need of improved starting pitching, and hopes Rodriguez can rediscover the form that led to an $80 million contract two seasons ago. He is focused on improving his curveball and refining his changeup, against which hitters slugged .292 in 2023 and .481 in 2025.
Nelson Impresses in Final Spring Start
In other Diamondbacks news, starting pitcher Ryne Nelson delivered a strong final performance of Cactus League play on Saturday, throwing five shutout innings against the Texas Rangers. His fastball averaged 96.4 mph, and his slider generated seven strikeouts and seven whiffs. Nelson felt solid about his stamina and slider action, and is scheduled to start the second game of the regular season on Friday night at Dodger Stadium.
The Diamondbacks are finalizing their roster, with manager Torey Lovullo emphasizing the importance of throwing accuracy, baseball IQ, and filling up the strike zone when making decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Venezuela win the World Baseball Classic?
Venezuela won its first World Baseball Classic title on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
What number did Eduardo Rodriguez wear during the World Baseball Classic?
Eduardo Rodriguez wore number 52 during the World Baseball Classic because Johan Santana was using number 57.
Who is the Diamondbacks’ scheduled starting pitcher for Saturday’s game at Dodger Stadium?
Eduardo Rodriguez is scheduled to start for the Diamondbacks at Dodger Stadium on Saturday.
As the regular season approaches, what are the Diamondbacks hoping to observe from Eduardo Rodriguez as he takes the mound?