Pedro Strop, a right-handed relief pitcher from the Dominican Republic, became a familiar name in Major League Baseball (MLB) through his consistent performances on the mound. Born on June 13, 1985, in San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic, Strop initially pursued a career as a shortstop. However, his path took a significant turn when he transitioned to pitching, a decision that eventually led him to the MLB.
Strop's professional baseball journey began when he signed with the Colorado Rockies as an international free agent in 2002. After spending several years in the minor leagues, he was traded to the Texas Rangers in 2008. It was with the Rangers that Strop made his MLB debut on August 28, 2009. Although his time with the Rangers was brief, it provided him with the opportunity to showcase his potential as a relief pitcher.
In 2011, Strop was traded to the Baltimore Orioles, where he began to establish himself as a reliable bullpen option. His tenure with the Orioles saw him refine his skills, particularly his fastball-slider combination, which became his signature pitching style. Strop's ability to deliver under pressure situations made him a valuable asset for the Orioles' bullpen.
The turning point in Strop's career came in 2013 when he was traded to the Chicago Cubs. This move proved to be a defining moment, as he became an integral part of the Cubs' bullpen for several seasons. Strop's tenure with the Cubs was marked by his consistent performance and ability to handle high-leverage situations. His role as a setup man was crucial in bridging the gap to the closer, often preserving leads and maintaining the team's momentum.
One of the highlights of Strop's career with the Cubs was being part of the team that won the 2016 World Series, ending the franchise's 108-year championship drought. His contributions during the regular season and postseason were instrumental in the Cubs' success. Strop's reliability and effectiveness in the bullpen earned him the trust of his teammates and coaches alike.
Throughout his time with the Cubs, Strop became known for his distinctive style on the mound, characterized by his tilted cap and energetic presence. His unique flair and competitive spirit endeared him to fans and made him a recognizable figure in the league. Strop's camaraderie with his teammates and positive clubhouse presence further solidified his role as a valued member of the Cubs organization.
After his successful stint with the Cubs, Strop briefly joined the Cincinnati Reds in 2020. However, his time with the Reds was short-lived, and he returned to the Cubs later that year. Despite facing challenges and injuries in the latter part of his career, Strop continued to demonstrate his resilience and determination to contribute to his team's success.
Pedro Strop's career in Major League Baseball is a testament to his adaptability and skill as a relief pitcher.
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