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May 1, 2023
Meet the Player: Willie Baca, San Jose Raiders’ Rising Ace
The San Jose Raiders have just returned from a tough three-game series in Houston, going 1–2 against the Drillers and dropping below .500 with a 12–13 record. To make matters worse, Bobby Ragland has again hit the injured list with forearm inflammation, sidelining him for at least two weeks.
Amidst the challenges, Raiders on the Bay continued its occasional “Meet the Player” series with a sit-down interview with 22-year-old starting pitcher Willie Baca from San Carlos, Nicaragua. Baca is quickly gaining recognition, both locally in San Jose and nationally, for his intelligence, work ethic, and mature approach on the mound.
A Journey From Nicaragua to the PBA
Q: How did you find your way to the United States and the PBA? What was it like growing up in Nicaragua where money was tight?
Baca:
“I started playing baseball very young in San Carlos. Life wasn’t always easy—money was tight and equipment was scarce—but baseball gave me purpose. I worked hard every day, learning from local coaches and older players. Scouts saw me in tournaments, and eventually I got the opportunity to come to the U.S. and join the PBA. It’s a dream come true, but I haven’t forgotten where I started.”
Follow-up Q: Did that background help you deal with challenges early in your career here?
Baca:
“Absolutely. I know what it’s like to have to fight for every opportunity. It makes you appreciate every chance you get and work even harder when you have it.”
Thoughts on the Season
Q: How do you feel the season is going for the team so far?
Baca:
“It’s been up and down. We’ve had some really good stretches and some tough losses. Right now, we’re still learning how to play consistently together. I think we have a lot of talent, and if we keep fighting, we can get back on track.”
Q: And personally, how has your own season been so far?
Baca:
“I feel good. My ERA is solid, and I’ve been able to pitch deep into games. My record doesn’t show it, but I feel like I’m helping the team. I just need to keep improving and help us win more games.”
Coaching and Team Relationships
Q: What is your relationship like with the coaches of the San Jose Raiders?
Baca:
“I have a great relationship with pitching coach Mike Nichols. He really understands my game and helps me improve every day. With manager John Bernklau, I have respect, even if we don’t always see eye to eye. It’s a professional relationship, and that’s important.”
Q: And with your teammates?
Baca:
“Very good. The guys are supportive, and we push each other to get better. Being on a new team can be tough, but everyone has been welcoming.”
The Craft of Pitching
Q: What does it feel like to throw at almost 100 mph when you’re on top of your game?
Baca:
“It feels natural. It’s not just about throwing hard—it’s about control, mixing pitches, and outsmarting the hitter. When everything is working together, it’s a good feeling.”
Q: Where did you learn to pitch the way you do, with a mix of fastball, curveball, slider, change-up, and sinker?
Baca:
“I started learning in Nicaragua with local coaches, and then refined my pitches after coming to the U.S. It’s been a combination of learning from others, practice, and trying to understand what works best for me. I like having options so I can challenge hitters in different ways.”
Baca’s combination of intelligence, discipline, and work ethic makes him a player to watch this season, not just for his raw abilities, but for the way he approaches the game and the influence he could have on a young San Jose Raiders team still finding its footing.
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