Long Island native, Steven Matz looks to get his first full major league season under his belt this coming year. In his brief appearance last season, we saw glimpses of how great of a pitcher he can truly be.
Marc Carig of Newsday spoke with Frank Viola and discussed the possibilities for Matz, and what the coming season may hold for him. The prediction is quite strong, as Viola believes the 23-year old lefty could bring home this season’s Rookie of the Year honors. Many analysts currently tab Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop, Corey Seager to win the award in 2016, but not Frank Viola.
“You heard me the other night, didn’t you?” said Viola. “I’m going to stick with it. I think Corey Seager is a hell of a ballplayer. But this kid Matz has the tools. The last thing I want to do is put pressure on a kid. But he’s got the tools and the makeup to win that award.”
The two have shared quite a bond, both being from Long Island and Viola coaching him in Class-A Savannah and then later on with Triple-A, Las Vegas. He believes Matz has everything needed to conquer the majors.
“His makeup is incredible, off the charts,” Viola said. “You challenge him and he’ll be up to it. Other kids you say that to and they’ll shut down, or they’ll try to do more than they’re capable of doing. He knows how I feel about him.”
Steven Matz himself isn’t too shocked that his mentor believes he will have quite a season in 2016.
“I think he’s a little biased,” Matz said. “But hey, I’m glad he’s got confidence in me. He always has. And that’s what he’s kind of instilled in me is having confidence in myself as well. It’s a great compliment.”
Steven Matz went 4-0 with a 2.27 ERA in six major league starts. He also showed great grit in his postseason appearances, performing to a 3.60 ERA in those 3 starts. 2016 can really be a breakout season for the southpaw.
