Oakland Athletics add on power to their pitching rotation as Rich Harden returns
The Oakland Athletics were one of the most active clubs at the start of the off-season. Their initiative at the start of the break period entailed making swift changes in the squad. With a roster bursting forth with experience
and flair, the side went on to associate themselves with the likes of Japanese pitching hero, Hisashi Iwakuma. Unfortunately, their planned acquisition of the ball thrower fell out.
However, the situation seems to have been changing. The Athletics have moved in on Rich Harden. A top quality player who was picked by the club in the player draft, in 2000 has made his way back to the team. The ball thrower never
had a good time on a consistent basis, but last season showed signs of good performance as he went on to play well for the Texas Rangers. He had a limited role with the 2010 American League Champions and pitching coach, Ron Romanick, was able to explain Harden’s
view on the season.
"Obviously he was disappointed he didn't do more for Texas last year, but health is not an issue anymore,"
pitching coach, Ron Romanick said. "He passed his physical and says he feels great. Now it's about getting back to the things he did really well. He did it to us last year. I saw flashes of that when he started against us, and when I saw him on TV
a couple of other times. He was just inconsistent.
"I've reminded him of all the work he put in during the '08 season when he was able to stay on the field. He was able to put together a pretty doggone good year. I'm looking to double down on that and more. He's given me every
indication he's going to come to the table with that kind of motivation. It will be exciting when we start up again."
Rich made a difference for the Rangers last season as he won 5 games from 18 starts made during the regular season. Harden was, however, expensive with his throws. The 29 year old conceded 57 runs during the year and was more the
quiet in conceding hits. Usually breaking rhythm along his game, Harden managed to maintain his Earning Runs Average at 5.58. Furthermore, his 92 innings appearance availed him 75 strikeouts, during the regular campaign.
The A’s will likely use the player in the rotation as backup. The intention will be to limit wear and tear on the original pitchers and resting them in the regular season.
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