Resolute to regain a slot in the Angels rotation, Ervin Santana has drawn enthusiastic reviews for his work with Licey in the Dominican Winter League.
On Monday, Santana outdueled ex- teammate Bartolo Colon in a 5-1 victory over Aguilas Cibaenas in the DWL championship series. Pitching five scoreless innings, giving up just four hits and a walk while striking out four, Santana restrained a lineup that included Huston Astro’s shortstop Miguel Tejada, LA Dodgers shortstop Rafael Furcal and Cincinnati Reds third baseman Edwin Encarnacion.
"We've gotten solid reports on him," New Angels General Manager Tony Reagins said of Santana, who is 3-1 with a 2.13 ERA. "His concentration and confidence have been outstanding, and the locations of his fastball, breaking ball and changeup have been great. His last two outings, he didn't give up a run. He's pitching with confidence, and that's exciting to see."
In his short rookie season in 2005 with the Angels pitching for injured starting pitcher Kelvim Escobar, Santana ended the Season with 12 wins. In the 2006 season, he finished with a 16-8 record. After a disappointing start to the 2007 season where he went 5-11 with a 6.22 ERA, lost his rotation spot and he was optioned to triple-A Salt Lake Bees on July 18, 2007. He was recalled by the Angels on August 17, 2007 and regained his spot in the starting rotation. He is expected to compete with Joe Saunders for the fifth slot this spring. Manager Mike Scioscia has expressed confidence that Santana, at 25, can rebound and regain his stature as a frontline pitcher.
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