TORONTO – With their season on life support, the Yankees are turning to a pitcher returning from the dead.
Yet, the way the players talked about Carl “American Idle” Pavano you would think it was David Wells, David Cone or Roger Clemens taking the mound instead of perhaps the biggest bust in baseball history.
Chosen over Phil Hughes, who isn’t ready for a re-entry, Pavano was informed yesterday he will face the Orioles tomorrow night in Camden Yards.
“We liked the way he has been throwing the ball,” Joe Girardi said. “He has experience and has pitched in playoff games. We are expecting him to throw well.”
Pavano hasn’t faced big league hitters since April 9, 2007 due to Tommy John surgery. He has made five minor league appearances this summer, going 1-1 with a 3.32 ERA.
Pavano, who signed a four-year deal for $40 million, has appeared in 19 games (4-6 with a 4.77 ERA) and has missed extensive time with elbow, back, shoulder and buttock injuries.
“No one has ever questioned Pavano’s ability. He has been hurt,” Alex Rodriguez said of the 62-64 career right-hander. “This is all about the moment and day. Ironically enough, we never have needed him more than now.”
Pavano will pitch tomorrow to Pudge Rodriguez, who caught him when they played for the Marlins.
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Joba Chamberlain increased his throwing program to 20 throws on flat ground from 60 feet to a squatting catcher. Prior to that he had been playing catch.
“I let a couple go and it felt good,” said Chamberlain, who will throw 35 pitches off a mound tomorrow but will be limited to fastballs and change-ups.
Girardi said he didn’t have a plan for Chamberlain beyond tomorrow but doesn’t expect him back before early September. And then it might be as a reliever.