Freddy Peralta brings the same upbeat attitude whether he’s underperforming in Queens or pitching like an ace, like usual. Pat Murphy, his former Brewers manager, aptly described Peralta as “joyful. He’s that way at all times, but now he has extra reason to be.
Peralta, who’ll start Game 3 in Tampa against his former team after winning the ALCS MVP for posting a 2-0 record and 0.75 ERA, regained more than his form for the Rays. He “changed the narrative” for his upcoming free agency, according to one agent (not his own).
Peralta told me he was looking for a “seven- or eight-year deal” in spring, and that makes sense again now as an asking price. While he would have had to severely adjust his goal had he continued to pitch like he did in Queens, he’s only reminded folks how good he is, and maybe even upped the stakes by hitting 99 mph and improving his changeup and pitch mix as a Ray.
Peralta, 30, credits Rays people, including their outstanding pitching coach Kyle Snyder, and their defense. Peralta is back, and as good or better than ever. He cited a “couple little mechanical adjustments” but the key, he said, is his outlook.