Yankees eye pitcher Chien-Ming Wang for minor league deal

Tampa, FL, United States (4E Sports) – Pitcher Chien-Ming Wang has been working out for the New York Yankees’ scouts in Tampa is reportedly close to a minor league deal.

The Yankees invited Wang for the work out after being impressed by his performance for Chinese Taipei in the World Baseball Classic.

Chinese Taipei team did not advance past the second round, but the right-handed Wang was brilliant in his pair of efforts, allowing no runs and 10 hits over 12 total innings, while walking just one batter and striking out three. His sinker was clocked at the low 90s, which suggests that he’s in good form.

“We have some vacancies in the rotation at [Triple-A] Scranton, so we’re exploring all those options and major league depth,” said general manager Brian Cashman.

He noted that Wang had a great time while he was with the Yankees.

Wang’s agent, Alan Chang, said he is in contact with several teams and there is no timetable for him to sign.

The 32-year-old was the Yankees’ top starter until he suffered a foot injury in 2008 running the bases during an interleague game in Houston.

After struggling mightily at the start of the 2009 season, Wang missed the next season and a half with a torn capsule in his shoulder. He pitched for the Washington Nationals the past two seasons and had a 6.68 ERA over 10 appearances (five starts) last season.

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