A throwing session in December turned catastrophic for Sharks sophomore pitcher Ernesto Pino.
After reporting some discomfort in his right elbow during the workout, tests revealed he required Tommy John surgery to repair his right elbow, effectively ending his season.
“I never thought that this was gonna happen,” Pino said. “When the doctor told me that I needed surgery it was a tough moment for me and my family.”
The right-handed pitcher was hoping to build off of last season. Pino was 3-1 last season for the Sharks with a 2.62 ERA, and 39 strikeouts in 55 innings pitched.
Despite the injury his teammates say Pino is still an integral part of the team.
“He’s still a leader,” said Jake Eichacker, also a pitcher on the team. “He’s able to talk to guys and let them know what’s happening.”
The 6-foot-3 inch righty was born and raised in Cuba. He arrived in the United States nearly four years ago.
“At the beginning it was hard because I didn’t have any friends and I also had to learn the language,” Pino said. “But I came to this country to achieve my dream of becoming a professional baseball player.”
After his arrival in South Florida, Pino thrived during his varsity career at South Miami High School. During his senior season in 47 innings he boasted a 1.04 ERA, with 43 strikeouts, and opponents batted .151 batting against him.
Now Pino is focused on his recovery and supporting his team.
“It’s something that happened, and this is just something that I am gonna learn from,” Pino said. “I am going to work harder to get better as a player and as a person.”
