Wang to “develop some new pitches” while in Washington
Today, the Nationals unveiled their latest signing, former Yankee, Chien-Ming Wang.
Here’s Wang on his new future with Washington:
“I look forward to becoming the sinker-ball pitcher that I was prior to the surgery,” Wang said. “I’m also looking to develop some new pitches — give the hitters a different look. … I’m very comfortable with [my new teammates]. I’m looking forward to knowing them, playing together and winning a championship.
“My No. 1 goal is returning as one of the best pitchers in Major League Baseball. I will do everything possible to make myself stronger again and give myself every possible way to be one of the best starting pitchers in the league.”
The statement, “I’m also looking to develop some new pitches,” is intriguing. Wang’s slider became a legitimate weapon for him in 2007, as it was 10.4 runs above average after being in the red the two years prior. His K/9 saw an uptick because of it (primarily), going from 3.14 in 2006 to 4.70 in 2007. His foot injury in 2008 and, of course, the subsequent shoulder injury in 2009 derailed what appeared to be an evolving and promising repertoire. While with Washington, I hope he continues to improve. Wang isn’t expected to pitch in the Majors until May at the earliest.
Photo by the AP
