Since the recent Mets vs. Nationals game, outfielder Jose Guillen's temper has resurfaced on the field. He didn't like the pitcher's intentions in one at-bat which came close to turning into an ugly scene. Pitching too far inside in recent years had caused Major Leaguers to react defensively and defiantly. Pitching this way is a part of the game. In Guillen's case, he tends to overreact sometimes. In Friday's game in Shea Stadium, Pedro Martinez came high and tight inside on Guillen, who began to shout at him then walked toward the mound with a squeezed bat in hand.
Pedro claimed that he wasn't attempting to him Guillen. Pitchers like to throw inside to brush hitters off the plate. This is normal and should be expected. However, the former Pittsburgh Pirate got hot under the collar and was ready to take a swing at the veteran right-hander. Jose's had issues in the past few years with conduct and attitude. He'd be okay if he channeled his anger and all that aggressive energy into his hitting.
The Nationals will probably have to contest with Guillen's off and on again bad temperament again this season. Advising him to take anger management may help as well as the coaching staff learning how to discipline him as a ball player. Guillen's hit 30 or more homeruns in the past 3 seasons. Beginning his career in Pittsburgh, he was scouted as a promising young prospect while in their farm system playing Single A ball for the Lynchburg Hillcats. From there he was traded to the Angels then to the Oakland A's for a short stay. He's finally found a new home in Washington. Guillen, despite his brooding nature, can provide power for any team and serves as an asset in the clutch.
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