Generated by DeepSeek V3.2| Dan Winkler | |
|---|---|
| Name | Dan Winkler |
| Position | Pitcher |
| Birth date | 2 February 1990 |
| Birth place | Effingham, Illinois |
| Debutdate | April 10 |
| Debutyear | 2016 |
| Debutteam | Atlanta Braves |
| Finaldate | May 1 |
| Finalyear | 2021 |
| Finalteam | Chicago Cubs |
| Statyear | 2021 season |
| Stat1label | Win–loss record |
| Stat1value | 8–4 |
| Stat2label | Earned run average |
| Stat2value | 3.43 |
| Stat3label | Strikeouts |
| Stat3value | 175 |
Dan Winkler is an American former professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Atlanta Braves and Chicago Cubs. A right-handed reliever known for his deceptive delivery, his career was significantly impacted by a major injury sustained shortly after his promising debut. Winkler was part of the Braves' bullpen during their 2018 National League East division title run before concluding his MLB tenure with the Cubs.
Dan Winkler was born and raised in Effingham, Illinois, where he attended Effingham High School and played multiple sports. He continued his baseball career at the collegiate level, pitching for the University of Central Florida Knights. While at UCF, Winkler honed his skills in the competitive American Athletic Conference, drawing the attention of Major League Baseball scouts with his performance on the mound.
Winkler was selected by the Colorado Rockies in the 20th round of the 2011 MLB draft. After several seasons in the Minor League Baseball systems of the Rockies and later the Braves, he made his MLB debut with Atlanta in April 2016. His early promise was interrupted that same month when he suffered a fractured elbow, requiring Tommy John surgery and an extensive rehabilitation. He returned to become a reliable piece of the Braves' bullpen, appearing in 69 games during the 2018 season as the team won the National League East. After being claimed off waivers, Winkler pitched for the Chicago Cubs in 2020 and 2021, playing alongside stars like Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo before being released.
Winkler threw from a three-quarters arm slot with a distinctive, crossfire delivery that created difficult angles for right-handed hitters. His primary pitch was a low-90s fastball, which he effectively paired with a sharp, mid-80s slider. This combination allowed him to generate a high number of strikeouts relative to his innings pitched. His mechanics and pitch sequencing were often analyzed by outlets like Baseball Prospectus for their effectiveness against Major League Baseball hitters.
Winkler resides in Effingham, Illinois with his family. He has been involved in local community and youth baseball activities following his playing career. His journey through injury rehabilitation and professional baseball has been cited as an inspiration for young athletes in the Midwestern United States.
* List of Major League Baseball players * Atlanta Braves all-time roster * 2018 Atlanta Braves season * Tommy John surgery
Category:American baseball players Category:Atlanta Braves players Category:Chicago Cubs players