MLB Spring Training 2012: Girardi Likes What He Sees so Far from Hiroki Kuroda
March 4, 2012 · Ken DeJohn · Jump to comments
Article Source: Bleacher Report - New York Yankees
Much debate has been made as to whether or not Hiroki Kuroda will prove to be a smart signing for the New York Yankees.
Many question how his abilities will translate from the weak-hitting NL West to the strong-hitting AL East.
On a one-year deal worth just $10 million, though, it’s hard to argue with GM Brian Cashman’s rationale. After having the starting rotation be one of the biggest question marks for the team in recent memory last season, Cashman wanted to make sure he strengthened it.
Kuroda, who owns a career 41-46 record with a 3.45 ERA in four seasons as a member of the Dodgers, definitely provides an improvement over the likes of Bartolo Colon.
So far, manager Joe Girardi has liked what he’s seen from Kuroda. Although it’s only been weeks of camp, Kuroda’s bullpens and live batting practices sessions have really impressed Girardi.
When Girardi was asked what he liked most about Kuroda, he said, “His veteran presence, No. 1; No. 2, the stuff that he has, and his ability to throw it on all sides of the plate.”
Later on in the interview, he went on to say, “He can throw it on both sides of the plate, his cutter, his slider, his breaking ball; he has a number of different off-speed pitches that he can use in different situations to get hitters out. He’s used to pitching in big situations. Pitching in L.A. is a big deal.”
Despite his transition this season from National League to American League, most see no reason as to why Kuroda would not keep up his high level of success. Those who do question him should remember the fact that he made the jump across the world to pitch in the states.
Given the fact that he sports a 3.45 ERA, he seems to have adjusted pretty well.
Kuroda claims that his early comfort in Yankees camp can be attributed to the fact that his former catcher, Russell Martin, has helped him with the transition.
“I feel very comfortable here. It’s not like it has been a big adjustment because everybody has welcomed me with open arms.”
Even though it was said through a translator, it’s good to hear that Kuroda is comfortable and pitching well early on. The Yankees will be counting on him in 2012, and there’s no reason as to why he won’t produce.
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