Wang Back to Rotation is the Right Move

The Yanks announced yesterday that Chien Ming Wang would return to the rotation and Phil Hughes would be moved to the bullpen.

Now, if Hughes was being moved to the bullpen on a full time basis then I'd question the move. He's shown that he can be a very good major league starter. But this is not a permanent move. If Wang can hold his own as a starter again, then Wang will be sent back down the AAA to get innings and continue his progress.

It is the only move that makes sense. Wang is not a relief pitcher. When he's right he's proven he's one of the top 10 starting pitchers in the American League. Plus he's just what you need in the New Yankee Stadium: A pitcher who is one of the stingiest when it comes to giving up home runs and fly balls.

As for Hughes, he's pitched well at times. But a little more seasoning in the minors won't hurt. And fortunately, the Yanks have a surplus of starters at the moment. They can afford the luxury of sending Hughes down to work on his command and secondary pitches. We'll see him again before the year is out.

In fact, Hughes may just be needed for the rotation soon anyway. I'm not so sure Andy Pettitte's back is really 100% as he says. After last night's 6 walk effort, I wouldn't be surprised to see Andy going on the DL in the near future. If so, Hughes can slide into his spot in the rotation. No need for Andy to keep going out there hurt, like he did last year.

The bullpen still has weaknesses but I don't believe guys like Hughes, Joba or Wang should be responsible for fixing them. I'd much rather develop starting pitching and fill in the bullpen gaps with the Robertsons & Melancons of the world.

I believe the Yankees are thinking the same way.