Vincent "Vinnie" William Pestano (born February 20, 1985) is an American former professional baseball relief pitcher.
Pestano attended Canyon High School (Anaheim, California) and California State University, Fullerton before being drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the 20th round of the 2006 MLB draft. Since 2007, Pestano has played in minor league baseball with the Columbus Clippers, Akron Aeros, Mahoning Valley Scrappers, Lake County Captains, and Kinston Indians.
Pestano's contract was purchased from Triple-A Columbus by the Indians on September 23, 2010. He made his MLB debut the same day, pitching one scoreless inning in relief.
On August 7, 2014, Pestano was traded to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in exchange for Class-A pitcher Mike Clevinger.[1] He was recalled by the Angels on August 10 after one game with the Triple-A Salt Lake Bees, but was sent back down on August 16 after just one appearance with the Angels.[2] On July 28, 2015 he was designated for assignment to make roster room for David DeJesus and David Murphy.
On February 5, 2016, Pestano signed a minor league deal with the New York Yankees.[3]
On April 4, 2017, Pestano signed with the Bridgeport Bluefish of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball.
On November 1, 2017, Pestano was drafted by the Long Island Ducks in the Bridgeport Bluefish dispersal draft. On March 29, 2018, Pestano signed with the Ducks for the 2018 season. He announced his retirement on June 13, 2018.[4]
Pestano throws three pitches. His main pitch is a four-seam fastball that is typically thrown between 90–93 mph. His secondary pitch is a breaking ball in the low 80s that is referred to by various sources as a curveball[5] or a slider.[6] He also occasionally throws a two-seam fastball.
Pestano was referenced in season 8, episode 4 (Who Wants to be a Godparent?) of How I Met Your Mother. After Barney supposedly throws a brick through an upper-story window in a flashback, Ted doubtingly says, "Yeah right. I've seen Barney throw, he's no Vinnie Pestano, am I right? ...Beloved Indians middle reliever!"
Vinnie married Andria Gray in December of 2016 in Dublin, Ohio. Indians second baseman Jason Kipnis served as one of Pestano's groomsmen.[citation needed]
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Preceded by Asdrúbal Cabrera |
Bob Feller Man of the Year Award 2012 |
Succeeded by Incumbent |
United States roster – 2013 World Baseball Classic | |
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Cal State Fullerton Titans 2004 College World Series champions | |
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