Jake Dittler was a starting pitcher last year for Buffalo, but has moved to the pen this season for Akron.

By Chuck King

Akron reliever Jake Dittler has worked through a bit of a rough patch this season. After allowing just two hits and no runs in his first four appearances out of the Aeros’ bullpen (eight innings) the right hander allowed six runs over his next three appearances. Dittler has settled down since then, allowing just one run in his past three appearances. Still, his record sits at 0-1 entering Friday night’s game.

A former second round draft choice by Cleveland in 2001, Dittler spent most of his career as a starter. Last season with Class AAA Buffalo, Dittler started in 24 of his 25 appearances, posting a 5-12 record.

Dittler hoped to start this season back with the Bisons, but the Indians moved him to the bullpen and sent him back to Double-A Akron to start the season.

MinorLeagueDugout.com sat down with Dittler during the Indians’ spring training in Winter Haven, Fl. For this edition of Rounding the Bases.

First Base:
What is the best minor league ballpark you’ve played in?
Indianapolis is pretty neat and Toledo is pretty nice too. They have a good atmosphere, nice ballparks, good fields and a good mound.

Second Base:
What is your favorite minor league town to visit?
Indianapolis is a good town. They have a lot of places to eat around there. They have a good mall. Pawtucket is pretty nice. They have a good mall across the street.

Third Base:
When you pull into your hotel, what restaurant do you want to see on the corner?
Subway is pretty good. Any kind of sub place that is pretty easy to get to.

Home Plate:
What’s the funniest thing you’ve seen since you’ve been in the minors?
One of my teammates (Chris Cooper) ran a pole (sprint from one foul pole to the other) in just his tighty whities in Myrtle Beach. It was before the game. It was hot. He was just out there in shoes and tighty whities. He was just messing around.

Extra Bases:
Is it important to have an agent?
In the minor leagues, probably not to much. It’s important in the big leagues. If you want to get to the big leagues, then you might as well have one coming up. They help you out a little bit and take you out to eat when they come around.

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