Johan Santana New York Mets Publications

Sporting News Magazine-April 7, 2008 issue-Johan Santana and the New York Mets.

Johan Santana is a left-handed starting pitcher who plays for the New York Mets. As a two-time Cy Young Award winner, Santana has established himself as one of the best pitchers in recent baseball history. His repertoire includes a 91-95 mph fastball, along with a circle changeup, considered by many to be one of the best changeups in baseball. Santana made his Major League debut with the Twins on April 3, 2000, coming from the bullpen vs. Tampa Bay. Santana is very good against both right and left-handed hitters. He works quickly and throws a 91-95 mph fastball, a hard slider (which he has developed into a slurve), and a tailing changeup that is considered one of best changeups in baseball. Some announcers refer to the changeup as a "Bugs Bunny" changeup. In 2006, Santana won the Major League Pitching Triple Crown, the first player to do so since Dwight Gooden in 1985. During 2007-2008 off-season, Santana was traded from the Twins to the New York Mets. On February 1, 2008, the Mets and Santana agreed to a six-year, $137.5 million contract. Santana finished the 2008 regular season with a 16-7 record, posting a 2.53 ERA with 206 strikeouts. His 2.53 ERA led the majors and was a career best.