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Closer to impact: After generating buzz all spring, Oviedo's rise could gain velocity in audition for relief

Johan Oviedo throws from the bullpen mound during the first official workout this year on Feb. 12.

Last summer, Johan Oviedo went 7-8 with a 5.56 ERA in 23 starts for Class AA Springfield.

To quicken his fluency in English, Johan Oviedo tuned in for television shows and music videos and, whenever possible, turned on the Spanish subtitles. But where he most enjoyed these language lessons was leaning back and looking up to a silver screen.