12-27-2008, 12:25 AM
Sullidouche
<!--quoteo-->QUOTE <!--quotec-->Despite mixed results from the Kosuke Fukudome experiment, the Cubs are considering inviting two Japanese pitchers to spring training to compete for relief jobs.
The pitcher they're most interested in is Ken Kadokura, a 35-year-old right-hander, and they also had a tryout for 34-year-old left-hander Shigeki Noguchi. The Yomiuri Giants released both veterans after the 2008 season.
Kadokura, who spent most of '08 in the minors, has a career record of 76-82, with 10 saves and a 4.36 ERA. He throws a fastball, a splitter and a slider and could get a look as a middle-reliever, with Jeff Samardzija getting an opportunity to start in spring training games.
"He hasn't pitched on the mound lately, but he is in great condition and has great command," Cubs Pacific Rim scout Steve Wilson told Nikkan Sports News. "We need some experienced pitchers for the bullpen.
"I will suggest [general manager] Jim Hendry consider signing him, at least as a spring training invitee."
The Cubs believe having another Japanese-speaking player around will help Fukudome feel more comfortable. They brought in former White Sox reliever Shingo Takatsu for a brief look last spring before cutting him.<!--QuoteEnd--><!--QuoteEEnd-->
Link(Tribune)
Interesting to see he mentions us starting Shark again.
<!--quoteo-->QUOTE <!--quotec-->Despite mixed results from the Kosuke Fukudome experiment, the Cubs are considering inviting two Japanese pitchers to spring training to compete for relief jobs.
The pitcher they're most interested in is Ken Kadokura, a 35-year-old right-hander, and they also had a tryout for 34-year-old left-hander Shigeki Noguchi. The Yomiuri Giants released both veterans after the 2008 season.
Kadokura, who spent most of '08 in the minors, has a career record of 76-82, with 10 saves and a 4.36 ERA. He throws a fastball, a splitter and a slider and could get a look as a middle-reliever, with Jeff Samardzija getting an opportunity to start in spring training games.
"He hasn't pitched on the mound lately, but he is in great condition and has great command," Cubs Pacific Rim scout Steve Wilson told Nikkan Sports News. "We need some experienced pitchers for the bullpen.
"I will suggest [general manager] Jim Hendry consider signing him, at least as a spring training invitee."
The Cubs believe having another Japanese-speaking player around will help Fukudome feel more comfortable. They brought in former White Sox reliever Shingo Takatsu for a brief look last spring before cutting him.<!--QuoteEnd--><!--QuoteEEnd-->
Link(Tribune)
Interesting to see he mentions us starting Shark again.
@TheBlogfines