A year ago, we did a Get To Know ‘Em Q&A with Lachlan Wells following his debut season in the GCL. Today, we dig just a little bit deeper to find out his thoughts about his 2016 season and more.
Seth Stohs (SS): We’ll start right from the beginning of 2016. It was your first spring training in the States. What was the experience like? Was it what you expected?
Lachlan Wells (LW): Well, getting to spring training and seeing a lot of guys there compared to extended spring in 2015 was very nerve wracking, and it wasn't what I expected it to be. So that was a bit of a shock. But once I got settled in, I was fine.
SS: What things did you focus on during extended spring training?
LW: I focused on pitch location and first-pitch strikes a lot in extended becoming more consistent with all my pitches for strikes and being able to improve of putting guys away in 0-2 and 1-2 counts.
SS: Were you expecting to go to Elizabethton from extended, and were you surprised to go to Cedar Rapids?
LW: I had my bags packed and ready to go to Elizabethton. Then a couple of days before the bus was leaving to Etown I got called in Brad Steil’s office, and he said I was staying in Fort Myers for a few more days, then joining Cedar Rapids after the All-Star break.
SS: You were one of the younger players on the Kernels roster the rest of the season. How was the adjustment to the clubhouse in Cedar Rapids?
LW: The adjustment from extended to Cedar Rapids was a little nerve-wracking, but I had a lot of help getting to know what goes on up there and the way they go about their business by Sam Gibbons which helped me a lot.
SS: You put up remarkable numbers throughout your time with the Kernels. In you opinion, what were some of your keys to success?
LW: I just went up there and tried to be the best I could, and not taking a step back just because I was younger than a lot of guys. Also, in between starts I would work a lot with (Kernels pitching coach) JP (Martinez) with video or in bullpens just to make little adjustments that would help me.
SS: What were your goals heading into the 2016 season, and how do you feel you did in accomplishing them?
LW: My goals were to play in Cedar Rapids and to improve/learn as much as I could during the season. I accomplished by listening to all the advice that had been thrown at me by all the pitching coaches I've worked with and taking (that) into bullpens then into games.
SS: What has your offseason been like? What are some of the things you done to stay away from baseball?
LW: My offseason has been nice and relaxed. I've been playing a lot of golf and going to beach or hanging by the pool with friends.
SS:A what point do you start your workouts and throwing programs for the 2017 season?
LW: I started my throwing program in December, and I've been working out since October.
SS: What pitches do you throw? What did you consider your out-pitch through the season?
LW: I throw a fastball, curveball, and change-up. I would have to say my out-pitch would be my change-up.
SS: Have you started to think about your goals for the 2017 season yet?
LW: My goals for the 2017 season would be pitching in Fort Myers with the Miracle and just to improve my pitching in all areas.
SS: Is it possible that you could pitch in the WBC this spring? You’ve pitched in international competitions before. What does it mean for you to represent your country?
LW: It is possible that I could be pitching in the WBC. There is no better feeling to be out on the field wearing the green and gold, and I would love to do it again.
SS: What are the areas of your game that you would like to spend time working to improve in the offseason and going forward?
LW: I'd like to improve my strength, so I'll be in the weight room working hard to improve on that as much as I can. Also, my fitness, so I'll be running a bit more this offseason to improve that.
SS: What is the best piece of advice you got from a teammate or coach in 2016?
LW: The best advice I got was just have fun.
SS: What music do you listen to before a start or on the bus rides?
LW: I liked listening to a bit of everything. Doesn't really worry me.
SS: Favorite movies from the long bus rides in the Midwest League?
LW: When I wasn't sleeping on the bus, I'd say Eastbound and Down TV series. Always a good laugh.
We certainly wish him continued success during the 2017 season and beyond.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to discuss below.
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