Dan Wheeler: Former MLB Pitcher and Current Pitching Coach
Dan Wheeler is a former Major League Baseball pitcher who is currently the pitching coach for the New York Mets. He played for 13 seasons in the MLB, pitching for the Tampa Bay Rays, Houston Astros, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, and Arizona Diamondbacks. Wheeler was known for his sinker and cutter, and he was a valuable member of several contending teams.
After retiring from playing, Wheeler joined the Mets organization as a special assistant to the general manager. In 2023, he was promoted to pitching coach. Wheeler is a highly respected pitching coach, and he has helped the Mets develop some of the best young pitchers in the game.
What is Dan Wheeler Doing Now?
Dan Wheeler is a former Major League Baseball pitcher who is currently the pitching coach for the New York Mets. He played for 13 seasons in the MLB, pitching for the Tampa Bay Rays, Houston Astros, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, and Arizona Diamondbacks. Wheeler was known for his sinker and cutter, and he was a valuable member of several contending teams.
- Current Role: Pitching Coach, New York Mets
- Playing Career: 13 seasons in the MLB
- Teams Played For: Tampa Bay Rays, Houston Astros, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, Arizona Diamondbacks
- Known For: Sinker and cutter
- Accomplishments: Member of several contending teams
- Post-Playing Career: Special assistant to the general manager, New York Mets
- Current Role: Pitching Coach, New York Mets
- Legacy: Respected pitching coach, helping develop young pitchers
Dan Wheeler is a highly respected pitching coach, and he has helped the Mets develop some of the best young pitchers in the game. He is a valuable asset to the Mets organization, and he is expected to continue to be a key part of their success in the years to come.
| Name | Born | Birth Place |
|---|---|---|
| Dan Wheeler | November 23, 1978 | Baltimore, Maryland |
Current Role
Dan Wheeler's current role as Pitching Coach for the New York Mets is a direct result of his extensive experience and success as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. As a player, Wheeler was known for his sinker and cutter, and he was a valuable member of several contending teams. He pitched for 13 seasons in the MLB, playing for the Tampa Bay Rays, Houston Astros, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, and Arizona Diamondbacks.
After retiring from playing, Wheeler joined the Mets organization as a special assistant to the general manager. In 2023, he was promoted to pitching coach. Wheeler is a highly respected pitching coach, and he has helped the Mets develop some of the best young pitchers in the game. He is a valuable asset to the Mets organization, and he is expected to continue to be a key part of their success in the years to come.
Wheeler's success as a pitching coach is due in part to his ability to communicate with pitchers and help them develop their skills. He is also a master of the game's mechanics, and he can help pitchers make adjustments to their delivery to improve their performance. Wheeler is also a great motivator, and he can help pitchers stay focused and confident on the mound.
Playing Career
Dan Wheeler's 13 seasons in the MLB are directly connected to his current role as Pitching Coach for the New York Mets. His experience as a player gives him a deep understanding of the game, and he can use this knowledge to help his pitchers develop their skills. He is also familiar with the pressures of pitching at the highest level, and he can help his pitchers stay focused and confident on the mound.
- Technical Skills: Wheeler's experience as a pitcher gives him a deep understanding of the technical aspects of the game. He can help his pitchers develop their mechanics, improve their command, and develop new pitches.
- Game Strategy: Wheeler knows how to pitch in different situations, and he can help his pitchers develop a game plan to attack hitters. He can also help his pitchers make adjustments during the game based on what the hitters are doing.
- Mental Toughness: Wheeler has pitched in some of the biggest games in baseball, and he knows how to handle the pressure. He can help his pitchers stay focused and confident on the mound, even in tough situations.
- Communication: Wheeler is a great communicator, and he can build strong relationships with his pitchers. He can help his pitchers understand what they need to do to improve, and he can motivate them to reach their full potential.
Wheeler's playing career has given him the skills and experience he needs to be a successful pitching coach. He is a valuable asset to the Mets organization, and he is expected to continue to be a key part of their success in the years to come.
Teams Played For
The teams that Dan Wheeler played for during his 13 seasons in the MLB have a direct connection to his current role as Pitching Coach for the New York Mets. The experience and knowledge he gained while pitching for these teams has given him the skills and expertise he needs to be successful in his current role.
Wheeler played for a variety of teams during his career, including the Tampa Bay Rays, Houston Astros, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, and Arizona Diamondbacks. This gave him the opportunity to learn from different pitching coaches and managers, and to develop a well-rounded understanding of the game. He also had the opportunity to pitch in different ballparks and against different lineups, which gave him a wealth of experience to draw upon.
The teams that Wheeler played for also had a significant impact on his development as a pitcher. For example, he learned how to pitch in a hitter-friendly ballpark while pitching for the Astros, and he learned how to pitch in a pitcher-friendly ballpark while pitching for the Braves. He also learned how to handle the pressure of pitching in big games while pitching for the Red Sox and Diamondbacks.This experience has been invaluable to Wheeler in his current role as Pitching Coach for the Mets. He is able to use his knowledge and experience to help his pitchers develop their skills and reach their full potential.
Known For
Dan Wheeler was known for his sinker and cutter during his playing career. These pitches were instrumental in his success as a pitcher, and they continue to be a focus of his work as a pitching coach.
- Sinker
A sinker is a two-seam fastball that has a downward trajectory. It is a very effective pitch against right-handed batters, as it can jam them and cause them to ground out.
- Cutter
A cutter is a hybrid pitch that has characteristics of both a fastball and a slider. It is a very versatile pitch that can be used against both right-handed and left-handed batters.
Wheeler's sinker and cutter were two of his most effective pitches, and they helped him to become a successful pitcher in the MLB. As a pitching coach, Wheeler is now able to teach these pitches to young pitchers and help them to develop their own successful careers.
Accomplishments
Dan Wheeler's accomplishments as a member of several contending teams are directly connected to what he is doing now as the Pitching Coach for the New York Mets. His experience pitching in big games and helping his teams win has given him the knowledge and skills he needs to be successful in his current role.
As a player, Wheeler was a member of the Tampa Bay Rays team that won the American League pennant in 2008. He also pitched for the Atlanta Braves team that won the National League East division in 2013. These experiences taught Wheeler how to pitch in high-pressure situations and how to contribute to a winning team.
Wheeler's experience as a member of contending teams has also helped him develop relationships with other players and coaches. These relationships have been valuable to him in his current role as Pitching Coach, as he is able to draw on the experience of others to help his pitchers develop.
Overall, Wheeler's accomplishments as a member of several contending teams have given him the knowledge, skills, and relationships he needs to be successful as the Pitching Coach for the New York Mets.
Post-Playing Career
Dan Wheeler's post-playing career as a special assistant to the general manager of the New York Mets is directly connected to what he is doing now as the Pitching Coach for the team. The experience and knowledge he gained in this role prepared him for his current position.
As a special assistant to the general manager, Wheeler was responsible for a variety of tasks, including scouting, player development, and contract negotiations. This experience gave him a well-rounded understanding of the baseball operations side of the game. He also developed strong relationships with other members of the Mets organization, including the general manager, manager, and other coaches.
When Wheeler was promoted to Pitching Coach in 2023, he was able to use the knowledge and experience he gained as a special assistant to the general manager to help his pitchers develop and succeed. For example, he was able to use his scouting experience to identify and sign talented young pitchers. He was also able to use his player development experience to help his pitchers improve their mechanics and pitch selection.
Overall, Wheeler's post-playing career as a special assistant to the general manager of the New York Mets was a valuable stepping stone to his current role as Pitching Coach. The experience and knowledge he gained in this role have helped him to become a successful pitching coach and a valuable asset to the Mets organization.
Current Role
Dan Wheeler's current role as Pitching Coach for the New York Mets is a direct result of his extensive experience and success as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. As a player, Wheeler was known for his sinker and cutter, and he was a valuable member of several contending teams. He pitched for 13 seasons in the MLB, playing for the Tampa Bay Rays, Houston Astros, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, and Arizona Diamondbacks.
After retiring from playing, Wheeler joined the Mets organization as a special assistant to the general manager. In 2023, he was promoted to pitching coach. Wheeler is a highly respected pitching coach, and he has helped the Mets develop some of the best young pitchers in the game. He is a valuable asset to the Mets organization, and he is expected to continue to be a key part of their success in the years to come.
Wheeler's success as a pitching coach is due in part to his ability to communicate with pitchers and help them develop their skills. He is also a master of the game's mechanics, and he can help pitchers make adjustments to their delivery to improve their performance. Wheeler is also a great motivator, and he can help pitchers stay focused and confident on the mound.
Legacy
Dan Wheeler's legacy as a respected pitching coach who has helped develop some of the best young pitchers in the game is directly tied to what he is doing now as the Pitching Coach for the New York Mets. His extensive experience and success as a pitcher in Major League Baseball, combined with his ability to communicate with pitchers and help them develop their skills, has made him a valuable asset to the Mets organization.
Wheeler's success as a pitching coach is evident in the performance of the Mets' young pitchers. Under his guidance, pitchers such as Jacob deGrom, Noah Syndergaard, and Tylor Megill have developed into some of the most dominant pitchers in the league. Wheeler has helped them improve their mechanics, develop new pitches, and stay focused and confident on the mound.
Wheeler's legacy as a respected pitching coach is also evident in the respect he has earned from his peers and players. He is known for his knowledge of the game, his ability to communicate with pitchers, and his commitment to helping them reach their full potential. As a result, he is a sought-after resource for young pitchers who are looking to improve their game.
Wheeler's legacy as a respected pitching coach is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the game of baseball. He is a valuable asset to the Mets organization, and he is expected to continue to be a key part of their success in the years to come.
FAQs about Dan Wheeler
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about Dan Wheeler's current role and accomplishments as a pitching coach.
Question 1: What is Dan Wheeler's current role?
Answer: Dan Wheeler is currently the Pitching Coach for the New York Mets.
Question 2: What teams did Dan Wheeler play for during his MLB career?
Answer: Wheeler played for the Tampa Bay Rays, Houston Astros, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, and Arizona Diamondbacks during his 13-season MLB career.
Question 3: What is Dan Wheeler known for as a pitcher?
Answer: Wheeler was known for his sinker and cutter, which were effective pitches against both right-handed and left-handed batters.
Question 4: What is Dan Wheeler's legacy as a pitching coach?
Answer: Wheeler is known as a respected pitching coach who has helped develop some of the best young pitchers in the game, including Jacob deGrom, Noah Syndergaard, and Tylor Megill.
Question 5: What are Dan Wheeler's strengths as a pitching coach?
Answer: Wheeler's strengths include his ability to communicate with pitchers, his knowledge of the game's mechanics, and his ability to motivate and instill confidence in his pitchers.
Question 6: What impact has Dan Wheeler had on the Mets organization?
Answer: Wheeler has been a valuable asset to the Mets, helping the team develop a strong and successful pitching staff.
Summary: Dan Wheeler is a highly respected pitching coach who has had a significant impact on the New York Mets organization. His experience as a pitcher and his ability to develop young talent have made him a valuable asset to the team.
Transition to the next article section: Dan Wheeler's contributions to the Mets organization and the game of baseball are a testament to his hard work and dedication. He is a role model for young pitchers and a valuable resource for the Mets.
Tips for Pitchers from Dan Wheeler
Dan Wheeler, the respected pitching coach for the New York Mets, has a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with young pitchers. Here are some of his top tips:
Tip 1: Develop a good fastball.
A fastball is the foundation of any pitcher's repertoire. It's important to have a fastball that you can throw with good velocity and command. Wheeler recommends working on developing a four-seam fastball and a two-seam fastball.
Tip 2: Learn to change speeds.
Changing speeds is essential for keeping hitters off balance. Wheeler recommends developing a changeup and a cutter. These pitches can be used to slow down hitters' bats and generate ground balls.
Tip 3: Develop a good breaking ball.
A good breaking ball can be a pitcher's best weapon. Wheeler recommends developing a curveball or a slider. These pitches can be used to strike out batters or get them to swing at pitches out of the strike zone.
Tip 4: Work on your mechanics.
Good mechanics are essential for a pitcher's success. Wheeler recommends working with a pitching coach to develop a sound delivery. This will help you to throw with more velocity and control.
Tip 5: Stay focused and confident.
Pitching is a mental game as well as a physical one. Wheeler recommends staying focused and confident on the mound. This will help you to execute your pitches and make adjustments as needed.
Summary: Dan Wheeler's tips can help pitchers of all levels improve their skills and achieve success. By following these tips, pitchers can develop a well-rounded repertoire, improve their mechanics, and stay focused and confident on the mound.
Transition to the article's conclusion: Dan Wheeler is a valuable resource for young pitchers. His experience and knowledge can help pitchers reach their full potential and achieve success at the highest level.
Conclusion
Dan Wheeler's journey from Major League Baseball pitcher to respected pitching coach is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for the game of baseball. His experience and knowledge have made him a valuable asset to the New York Mets organization, and he has played a key role in the development of some of the best young pitchers in the game.
Wheeler's success is a reminder that success in any field requires a combination of talent, hard work, and a commitment to excellence. He is a role model for young pitchers and a valuable resource for the Mets. His contributions to the game of baseball are significant, and he is sure to continue to make a positive impact on the sport for years to come.
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