The Diamondbacks announced this afternoon that they have added former major league pitcher Ariel Prieto to their staff as a coach and translator.
Prieto, who is from Cuba, served in the same capacity with the Athletics over the past three seasons and helped with Yoenis Cespedes’ transition to the United States. One would think he’ll have a similar mentor-type role with the newly-signed Yasmany Tomas. The press release from the Diamondbacks notes that Prieto also has the “unique ability to ambidextrous batting practice,” which is a pretty awesome added bonus.
Prieto came over legally from Cuba in 1995 and posted a 4.85 ERA and a 15-24 record over six seasons in the majors between the Athletics and the (then) Devil Rays.
