Mar 19 2009
THE WANGER REBOUNDS, A.J. VS. JAYS
Yesterday we saw the Chien-Ming Wang that we all know and love, as he threw 5 innings of 1-run baseball with a couple of K’s. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, mark Wang down for at least 18 W’s (pending he stays healthy).
One of the new arrivals, A.J. Burnett (up next tonight against his former Jays team), has transitioned quite well in his new clubhouse so far. In fact, he has provided some advice for Wang, which could help him relax and become more of an all-around starting pitcher in this league. After all, A.J. has been in this league a while, and he’s about 5-6 years older than Wang, as well as having pitched in both leagues now. He told him to further develop his other pitches, and change speeds frequently. You can’t argue with him, because it’s the right mind-frame - can’t just continue to pound sinkers all day, cause you’ll eventually get hit hard when it’s not working. Another thing that was also noticed by Dave Eiland (pitching coach) was that Wang’s mechanics fell apart at times, so when corrected he was able to be much more effective.
On the offensive side of the ball, it was nice to see Robbie Cano come up with a couple of hits while DH’ing yesterday. He’s expected to play 2nd tomorrow, and get back to where he belongs. Unexpected camp-invitee and once rookie of the year, Angel Berroa, continued to show that he’s got the ability to play in this league and came up with another hit, raising his average to .421 for the spring. It’s safe to say that he will be the back-up infielder come opening-day in Baltimore.