While the Yankees were busy walking off with a win against the Twins in the Bronx yesterday, their number two starter was two hours west in Scranton throwing a seven-inning complete game shutout. But as great as Wang looked, GM Brian Cashman said “everyone should assume” he’ll make another start in Triple-A.
However, the Yanks’ GM noted that Wang is not far off from returning to the big league club. The same holds true for Brian Bruney who could return this week against the Orioles. While it would be nice to have a healthy CMW in the rotation performing up to his capabilities, the most important thing is making sure he’s completely right and stretched out. Cash did mention that Wang’s velocity was down a touch, and you’d like to see him consistently in that 92-94 range before throwing him back to the AL East wolves.
Cash also provided updates on Bruney, Ian Kennedy and others, courtesy of Chad Jennings.
Ben’s Take: With Wang still working to build up arm strength at AAA, Phil Hughes will get to make his fifth start of the season for the Yanks on Wednesday against the Orioles. I know that many fans would rather see Al Aceves throw a start than sit through another Hughes outing, but I firmly believe Hughes needs this work.
Right now, he’s 22 and pitching serviceably in the Major Leagues. He’s still among the youngest starters in the game and has already shown that he can dominate AAA competition. At this point, he needs to work through his struggles and gain confidence to throw strikes at the big league level. The Yanks, competing in a four-way AL East race, can’t always afford to break in their youngsters via the trial by fire route. Not everyone, however, will be as dominant as early as Joba has been, and Phil needs the work. It’s for the good of the team’s future.
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