The Keepers - #104 - RP Mark Picca

photo by Allan Greene

104.     Mark Picca

10-3-11 Interview:

Mack:   Hey folks, we're talking to another of Kingsport's fine relief arms this past season, the 41st round pick out of the University of Texas-Arlington (lot's of plane noise)... LHP Mark Picca. Hey Mark, are you home resting now?

Picca:  Yes, I'm back home in Arlington resting up and taking some classes at UTA to try and finish up my degree. Waiting to get back into a workout routine

Mack: So, first thing first... Who has the largest picture in the UTA trophy case... you or Gee?

Picca:  Well,  Gee does of course. He's made it to the major leagues and had success there. I'm sure if I make it to the Bigs I could give him a run for his money.

Mack:  First of all, tell us what it was like hearing your name on draft day and then pitching in your first pro game.

Picca:   It was a great feeling hearing my name called, because it was something I've been working on achieving for half of my life. I was just happy to get an opportunity.  Pitching in my first pro game was surreal. I was a little nervous because it was my first time throwing to batters in almost 2 months since college; but after I got the first batter out it gave me the confidence to play the game I've been playing all of my life.

Mack:  Please explain what the main difference is pitching to kids in school vs. pros in the system?

Picca:  The biggest difference is talent level. Most of the players have big league talent, which is why most of them were drafted or signed, but the consistency and approach still aren't perfect in the lower levels so there are still ways to take advantage of those inconsistencies, just as with guys still in school.

Mack:  Mark, you're a 6-2 lefty... and the only thing better than that is a 6-3 lefty. Your 2011 went: 18-G, 24.1-IP, 23-K, 5-BB, 3.70. You've obviously earned a bump up to either Brooklyn or Savannah. What are you doing in the off-season to prepare yourself for the next step?

 Picca:   I've been working out with local trainers, lifting and conditioning to get back into shape. I hope to get stronger and come back ready to go and ready to earn a spot at a higher level. 

Mack:  Are you on the Nitro plan?

Picca:   Yes, we all received a workout regiment from Nitro and the Mets to follow during the offseason. He believes in the workout and I like what it has in it, so that’s what I'm going to use this offseason.

Mack:   Mark, thanks for the time spent.

 Picca:  You’re welcome. Thank you.

3-31-12 – There’s a good chance Mark will open 2012 with Savannah.