Steve Gann
Sandra 1Japanese Female Pitcher To Play Pro Ball In The U.S.
April 11th 2010 15:11
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Japanese Female Pitcher To Play Pro Ball In The U.S.
It's because she has something that most pitchers don't, a knuckleball. For years knuckleballers have confused batters and in many instances their own catchers with the mystery pitch. The pitch has a life of it's own and because it is easy on the arm has extended many major league careers for aging pitchers.
Yoshida, who played in Japans independent Kansai League for the Kobe Cruise last year, where she went 0-2 with a 4.03 ERA, allowing 7 runs in 10.2 innings pitched. She won her first professional game earlier this year pitching in the independent Arizona Winter League, pitching four scoreless innings in a game for the Yuma Scorpions.
Yoshida says she learned how to throw a knuckleball by watching video of Tim Wakefield. Last month, she even picked up a few additional tips from the Boston Red Sox pitcher at the team's spring training facility in Fort Myers, Fla.
Former Major Leaguer and current Outlaws manager Garry Templeton seems impressed by the tiny pitching phenom. "I believe that she is ready for this and has the potential to do very well, I watched her in the Arizona Winter League and was impressed with the way she handled herself on and off the field, her determination and commitment, and her ability to integrate into a league of almost 200 pro players. Like any knuckleballer, when she was on she was very difficult to hit and when she wasn't good hitters would tee off. I'm excited to have her on the team and to watch her continue to improve and develop and progess up the pro ranks."
Yoshida responded with the comments with "I am grateful for this opportunity to pitch for the Chico Outlaws," "This is a dream come true for me and I hope that I can contribute to the team to help them win and also to continue to improve as a pro baseball player."
It's possible that this is all a publicity stunt as Independent leagues are notorious for their outlandish promotions. It will definitely bring media attention as well as fannies to the stands. Yoshida may also just be the key ingredient to bring a championship to the Outlaws.
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