New York Yankees’ pitcher Joba Chamberlain looking optimistic ahead of next season – MLB Update
For the first time in his Major League Baseball career, New York Yankees’ Joba Chamberlain is looking forward to a routine Spring Training and regular season.
According to a leading sports website, Chamberlain is not looking at 2013 as a season during which he has to bounce back. He does not have any special preparations or goals going into the next season, the source further added.
Chamberlain missed most part of the 2012 season due to health and fitness issues. Overall, he pitched just 20 plus innings, allowing 11 runs with a 4.35 ERA. The 27-year-old was at the Yankee Stadium on Thursday, welcoming the fans bringing supplies for
the Sandy Hurricane survivors.
“I am going to be able to compete from day one, not have to do the (rehab) work,” said Chamberlain, who missed most of last season because of elbow and ankle injuries. “I think that is the biggest thing — that is what I am looking forward to — is that it
is all systems go from day one.”
Injuries have halted his progress considerably over the last two years. He missed the 2011 season for Tommy John surgery. Later during rehab, he fractured his ankle.
The hard throwing Yankees’ pitcher said that he will take a few more weeks before starting his offseason workouts. He further claimed that after the final month of 2012 season, he will be entering the next season with no worries or concerns about his fitness.
“I want to build on how I finished, to know it’s still there, still have that ability to still do that,” Chamberlain said. “I am looking forward to going out there and not have to worry about anything.”
Chamberlain pitched 7.1 innings with a forgettable 8.89 ERA in August. However, he was able to finish the season on a strong note, allowing just one run on nine hits in his last 13 appearances.
He is also very clear on what his role will be in the Yankees’ pitching rotation. In the past, he had to fight for the starting spots in the bullpen. However, after the departure of Rafael Soriano, he will be in line to pitch in the seventh inning.
Tags: