Brandon McCarthy emerging new pitcher with Oakland Athletics – MLB News
Oakland Athletics new hire as pitcher Brandon McCarthy proved all his foes wrong on Friday when he crushed the Texas Rangers with four strike-outs allowing only two runs and five hits in combined five innings. It was thought that his injured shoulder will
not let him make a place in fifth starter rotation for Athletics but he quietly impressed the team officials.
"He knows how to make adjustments," manager Bob Geren said. "Sometimes, he gets away from the mechanics, but he'll get right back to them and toss a really good inning."
It has happened many times with McCarthy that he struggled with his form, but he returned with a splendid record and it might fix him in the team for the long run, according to Bob Geren. It is said that the recent form is due to the time spent by Coach
Ron Romanick who advised McCarthy focus on his footstep on the rubber.
"For the most part, it's comfortable," McCarthy, said. "Footing-wise, balance-wise, everything's the same."
It was hard time for McCarthy to make a place in Oakland because he strived hard to prove himself in 2010. However, he managed to impress Oakland’ officials with his 4-2 record and 3.36 ERA in 11 games at Triple-A level for Rangers last year. Oakland hired
him last year as pitcher.
Though the right-hander has proved his skills, he still has to compete with Tyson Ross, Bobby Cramer and Josh Outman for rotation spot. The advantage for McCarthy is return of confidence that he expressed on Friday.
Talking to reporters after the game, he mentioned his pitching style that according to him is bit tricky. He further considered himself a straightforward person throughout his career but also admit that he had to change his behaviour last year due to consistent
problems he faced. He focused on his pitching and tried achieve the efficiency to allow just ground balls and stakeouts.
"I decided that's the change I wanted to make. Strikeouts are nice if I get there, but I'd rather have the at-bat done before that."
Only time will tell if McCarthy will be able to perform for the Athletics and provide some much needed variation into the pitching line-up. His fitness is reason for concern as the team is looking forward to his valuable contribution on the mound. It will
be interesting to see how McCarthy will add to the Athletics’ pitching strength. As the start of the regular season is coming near, Oakland will be looking to improve their performance in all areas of their game. McCarthy may just be the key component to add
to their pitching line-up.
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