Outfielder Cristian Pache spoke with the media at Chop Fest on Jan. 25 at Truist Park. In the interview, he discussed his work to improve at the plate and his relationship with fellow outfield prospect Drew Waters. Pache spoke through the Braves' interpreter, and the interview was edited for brevity.
Q: What did you gain from last year, especially alongside Waters? What did you learn, particularly from that bump to Triple-A (Gwinnett)?
A: Communication was at the top. We really got along with each other. We learned what our weaknesses were and made sure that we were backing up each other. Definitely getting that sense of communication and working the different fields (and positions) was really great.
More Braves Q&As
» Freddie Freeman
» Brian Snitker
» Drew Waters
» Read the entire series
Q: You mentioned a few weeks ago, that you and (Waters) were keeping in touch. What have those conversations been like?
A: (Drew's) been a huge support. He tells me to keep focused and to keep working. He also said to just keep my head down and go for it. That's been a huge support for me.
Q: What do you think your weaknesses are that are keeping you from getting to the majors right now?
A: I've worked on it, and I think it's definitely the hitting. I think I've done really well in improving my skills. I'm looking forward to a great spring training and getting called up.
Q: You were a lot more patient last year and drew more walks, what was the key to being more patient and drawing more walks?
A: Working with my hitting instructor in the (Dominican Republic). We worked on really making sure what the strike zone was. I focused on the strike zone and made sure that I was batting and swinging at the right pitches.
Q: For the Braves fans who will get their first chance to see you at spring training, what kind of player do you want them to see?
A: I want them to see me as focused, that I play hard, and that I play with fun. I want them to know that I'm enjoying it, but that I'm also giving 100% and playing hard."
