And Andy’s Pett project
on them. But when you’re on the mound you definitely want to go out there and attack and go after them. That’s what I love. I just love the competition. That’s why I like being here and going against bigleague guys.
“I want to face (Mike) Trout. I want to face Hanley (Ramirez). I want to face the big-name guys because it’s fun seeing who’s better between the two of us at that time.”
Sheffield is currently working on his slider with the help of CC Sabathia, a valuable friend and mentor.
“I’m trying to get it to a more consistent — being able to start throwing it backdoor and backfoot for a wipeout (strikeout) pitch more consistently, and that’s what I’ve been working on,” Sheffield said. “I’ve seen improvement with it since I came to spring training. I’ve been working with Larry (Rothschild) and talking with CC about some grips and his mindset when he throws it.”
Sabathia has taken a liking to Sheffield.
“I think it’s the lefty thing, and us both being drafted by Cleveland,” Sabathia said. “We have a lot in common, so I think it could be a good relationship. He’s a good kid. I’m excited for him.”
On Wednesday, Andy Pettitte, another pretty good lefty in his days in the Bronx, chatted with Sheffield at his locker.
The Indians had their young pitchers watch video of Pettitte’s pitch sequences and elite pickoff move, according to Sheffield. “Andy’s very down to earth,” Sheffield said. “I can pretty much ask him anything.”
Pettitte got a chance to watch Sheffield’s bullpen session on Tuesday. Sheffield’s next outing will come on Friday in Clearwater against the Phillies.
“He’s a great talent,” Pettitte said. “Now it’s a matter of developing, getting out there and continuing to pitch and learn.”
Sheffield gets to learn from the best.
“It’s awesome,” Sheffield said of having former All-Stars like Sabathia and Pettitte in his corner. “It means a lot, just because you see those guys on TV growing up. And then for them to want to give back knowledge and pass it down to you and be there for you, I’m thankful for that.”