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| Photo is credited to AUPanthers.com |
Yes it is only April 14, but Adelphi’s Dillon McNamara has broken the single-season record for saves in a season with 10. The Panthers have 17 wins, which means when they get a lead within three runs late in the game they have a huge advantage with No. 19 looming in the pen. Head Coach Dom Scala has not been afraid to use him in multiple innings, in fact, several of his saves have been more than three outs. By the way, through 20 innings he has yet to allow a run. That’s right, 20 innings, zero runs, 26 strikeouts. I had the chance to speak with him about his new routine and the mentality behind converting to a reliever.
1) Is there a different approach as a starter as opposed to being a closer? Perhaps in mentality or sticking to two pitches instead of three or four?
There is definitely a change in mentality going from starting to closing. As a starter I’m focused on going deep into games, getting ground balls and of course giving my team a chance to win. Closing is a whole different mind set. I’m leaving it all out there for one inning, I’m out there to shut the door. And yes, I mostly stick to a 2-pitch combo in the closing role.
2) Was it difficult adjusting to the amount of time to warm up being that a relief pitcher must be ready on a moments notice?
Not really, I’ve been blessed with the ability to get loose quickly and I love the fact that I can get into the game at a moments notice. I want to be out on the field helping the team win as much as possible.
3) What pitcher do you emulate? Your motion and size have garnered comparisons to Josh Johnson, do you think that’s a fair comparison?
At a young age I always admired Roger Clemens. His no nonsense demeanor on the mound really resonated with me. Being compared to any major leaguer is a huge compliment, especially one of Josh Johnson’s caliber. But recently I have made sure to watch every time Matt Harvey is starting, I’m learning a lot from him. He is another guy with an intimidating mound presence and his stuff is just filthy.
