On paper, there seems to be similarities between the Texas Rangers’ new Japanese pitching sensation, Yu Darvish, and Daisuke Matsuzaka of the Boston Red Sox, who has disappointed. Yes, as with Dice-K, batters may eventually adjust to the movement of Darvish’s pitches. But the 25-year old rookie is a more physically imposing specimen (6’5″) than Matsuzaka, and is a better athlete who should be able to eat innings, giving Texas’ bullpen a much needed breather. And his arsenal contains a range of six to eight pitches.
If Darvish can live up to the hype surrounding him, the Rangers may reach a third World Series—and this time, finally win it.