September 24, 2017
William Ouellette found success in the later innings for the Vancouver Canadians. (Rob Fai)
Right-handed pitcher William Ouellette had a breakout year in 2017.
Ouellette’s big year began in Florida with the Dunedin Blue Jays, before heading to Vancouver.
Allowing just one earned run in 6 1/3 innings pitched in the FSL was a great measuring stick for Ouellette, who will be looking to make more appearances there in the future.
“I think the biggest difference between Dunedin and Vancouver is you can make less mistakes in the FSL,” explained Ouellette. “We’re human, we’re not robots, so we’re going to make mistakes as pitchers. You just have to make less of them in Dunedin to have success.”
Limiting mistakes was something Ouellette did very well in 2017, as the righty maintained an impressive 1.00 WHIP, and picked up 13 saves in Vancouver.
While he enjoyed every save he picked up last season, none was bigger than finishing up the C’s Championship run.
“Being on the mound for the final out at our home stadium is the best thing I’ve ever done on the baseball field,” stated Ouellette. “It’s something I will remember for the rest of my life!”
What makes Ouellette’s season even more impressive is the fact that pitching is still relatively new to him. Performing primarily as a shortstop in college, Ouellette began the transition from field to mound in his senior year.
Despite the limited time on the mound, Ouellette has already developed three pitches he uses regularly. Currently using a mix of a fastball, slider, and changeup; it appears that the righty is on the right track moving forward.
Hoping to develop his game enough to reach the big leagues one day, Ouellette has visions of being like his father, Phil.
“I have always wanted to follow in my father’s footsteps,” stated Ouellette. “Hopefully with the opportunity I have with the Blue Jays I can reach the big leagues in the future.”
Blue Jays fans hope William Ouellette can reach his dream, as a member of their organization.