New pitching coach brings experience to Wild Things
The Wild Things announced Friday an addition to their coaching staff and he brings plenty of professional experience to the Frontier League organization.
Hector Nelo has been hired as Washington’s pitching coach. A native of Venezuela, Nelo played professionally for 12 years before becoming a coach. He spent the summer of 2024 coaching the Cincinnati Reds’ summer league team in the Dominican Republic.
This will be Nelo’s first coaching assignment in the United States. He replaces Alex Boshers, who left the Wild Things after winning his second Frontier League Coach of the Year award.
“I’m excited to welcome Hector to our organization. While it’s hard to replace a guy like Alex Boshers, I feel like Hector’s playing experience, in affiliated, independent and winter leagues, will be a great asset for our pitching staff,” Wild Things manager Tom Vaeth said in a release. “Hector is coming from time spent as a pitching coach in the Cincinnati Reds organization, where he gained valuable knowledge and connections that will benefit our players and entire organization.”
Nelo was a 15th-round draft pick of the Texas Rangers in 2007 and worked his way up to the Class AA level. He later played independent ball in the Atlantic and Can-Am leagues. He last played in the Puerto Rico Winter League in 2019-20.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the Washington Wild Things as the new pitching coach,” Nelo said. “The organization has a strong vision for player development and winning habits. I am eager to bring my experience and passion to help pitchers grow both on and off the field. … I can’t wait to get started and contribute to the success of this team.”
Nelo pitched in 386 professional games with 19 wins and 80 career saves.
Washington’s pitching staff was statistically the best in the Frontier League, leading the circuit in several categories including ERA, quality starts and fewest walks allowed.