Wada may be ready "sooner than many people think"

[Jordan Tuwiner]

http://www.csnbaltimore.com/blog/oriole ... ople-think

Tsuyoshi Wada was expected to be an important part of the Orioles’ rotation last season. Instead, he had Tommy John surgery.

The 31-year-old Japanese left-hander signed a two-year, $8.15 million contract and after staying back in Sarasota, Fla. for extended spring training, underwent surgery in May.

“He’s doing great,” manager Buck Showalter said at his session with reporters at the Winter Meetings Tuesday.

“I know that’s kind of under-the-radar. We have a chance to get a good pitcher a lot sooner than some people may think. I’m not going to say the start of the season until we get down to spring.”

[ofahn]

I'd be very surprised if he's ready to make a contribution coming out of ST; however, I could see him as a long man in early May and maybe a SP by July if his performance warrants it.

[Matt P]

That's good news. From what I've read he should at worst be a very good reliever.

[Jordan Tuwiner]

That's good news. From what I've read he should at worst be a very good reliever.

And a lefty, too.

If he comes back and performs well they should really have some flexibility to deal pieces at the trade deadline if they are in contention.

[ofahn]

And a lefty, too.

If he comes back and performs well they should really have some flexibility to deal pieces at the trade deadline if they are in contention.

Keep in mind that they are paying Wada more per year than Chen, and they signed him first. Clearly, they believe they have a very good pitcher.

[Jordan Tuwiner]

Keep in mind that they are paying Wada more per year than Chen, and they signed him first. Clearly, they believe they have a very good pitcher.

Yup. That's why it'll be great to have him back. I'm not saying they should trade him. Could be another pitcher.

[LA Detective]

Anyone know if we have options on Wada or Chen after this season?

[Jordan Tuwiner]

Anyone know if we have options on Wada or Chen after this season?

I am pretty sure they both have three options.

[LA Detective]

My apologies Jordan, I meant club options at the end of their contracts.

[Jordan Tuwiner]

My apologies Jordan, I meant club options at the end of their contracts.

Ah, gotcha.

Chen was signed for three years and there is a team option for 2015 ($4.75 million).

Wada was signed for two years and there is a 2014 team option for $5 million.

[LA Detective]

Bargains if they preform as expected. You gotta to love our depth for the next few years..Thanks Jordan

[ofahn]

I am pretty sure they both have three options.

I believe Wada has a contract clause that requires his approval to be optioned to the minors.

[Jordan Tuwiner]

I believe Wada has a contract clause that requires his approval to be optioned to the minors.

I'd imagine both of them do.

[Matt P]

If Chen ever has to be sent to the minors it will be a sad day in Baltimore.