Chien-Ming Wang, the Taiwanese pitcher signed by the Washington Nationals in 2010 but yet to throw in a big league game for the Nats, makes the second start in his rehabilitation Saturday in Woodbridge for the Potomac Nationals.
Wang, who became an international sensation during his five seasons with the New York Yankees before joining the Nationals before the 2010 campaign, pitched for the first time for a Nats’ affiliate on Monday in Hagerstown. Over three innings, he allowed two earned runs on four hits with three strikeouts and a walk.
The Yankees signed Wang in 2000 and developed him in their minor league system. In 2004, Wang led the Chinese Taipei team to the Olympic Games in Athens, highlighted by a three-hit win over Australia.
He was promoted to the Major Leagues in 2005 and immediately became an idol in Taiwan. In 2006, Wang established himself as the Yankees ace: he won 19 games and was second to Johan Santana in the Cy Young Award voting.
In 2007, hamstring started him on the DL in ‘07, but he once again won 19 games with a 3.70 ERA. In 2008, he was limited to 15 starts, but went 8-2 with a 4.07 ERA. In 2009, a right foot injury sustained while running the bases altered his mechanics, and limited him to just nine appearances (two of them starts). He went 1-6 with a 9.64 ERA.
Before the 2010 season, the Yankees non-tendered Wang, and the Nationals signed the righthander. He has yet to make an appearance for the Nationals in the Major Leagues.
The weekend is packed with activies at Pfitzner Stadium. As part of our Food, Fireworks, and Fun weekend, the Potomac Nationals are celebrating the history of baseball on Saturday. The first 1,000 fans at the Pfitz will receive a free Abner Doubleday bobblehead. First pitch is at 6:35 pm, with gates opening at 5 pm. Make sure you come early to get your Doubleday bobblehead.
On the field, the P-Nats will wear throwback jerseys to honor the first professional team in Washington. And during the game, we will host an auction to win those throwback jerseys. After the game, tie together a night of American history with the best fireworks in minor league baseball. To get tickets, visit the club online at www.potomacnationals.com or call the ticket office at 703-590-2311.
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Chris Graham
