Diamondbacks' Rodriguez Reflects on WBC Mentorship with Santana

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Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez has long admired fellow Venezuelan southpaw Johan Santana, even wearing jersey number 57 in tribute. That admiration reached a new level during the recent World Baseball Classic, where Santana served as Venezuela's pitching coach and worked directly with Rodriguez throughout the tournament. Rodriguez credited Santana's mentorship for helping him deliver a strong performance in the championship game, which saw Venezuela win its first WBC title.

Why it matters

The World Baseball Classic can be a pivotal experience for players, offering not only national pride but also invaluable mentorship opportunities. Rodriguez's time with Santana could prove crucial as he seeks to regain consistency and contribute to the Diamondbacks' success this season.

The details

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.' Rodriguez considers Santana's changeup unmatched, and credits the veteran with imparting valuable lessons about the mental side of the game.

• Venezuela won its first World Baseball Classic title on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
• Rodriguez wore number 52 during the World Baseball Classic because Johan Santana was using number 57.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Diamondbacks are counting on Rodriguez to carry the momentum from his strong World Baseball Classic performance into the regular season, where he is scheduled to start at Dodger Stadium on Saturday.