Aaron Harang likes PetCo

Aaron Harang has joined the San Diego Padres and seems to like his new teammates and coaches.  He’s started 3-0 and pitched a bit better than than the Harang we’ve gotten to know over the past three years.  We knew he could turn things around in spacious PetCo but, we also knew he has not been so good recently.  What many of you may not have realized is Harang’s San Diego connections. How long will he continue to pitch well? Perhaps all season and here’s why.

Harang loves San Diego, is from San Diego and went to San Diego State.  That has got to put him in a comfort zone.  He knows his way around the town and the quickest ways to the ballpark.  He gets to have his haircut by his favorite barber and have home cooked meals with food from his favorite grocery store.  Don’t underestimate being at home.  There is no place like home.

Additionally, Aaron Harang has been really good in the past.  In 2006, Harang lead the league in wins (16), complete games (6), and strikeouts (216).  In 2007, he was 16-6 with 218 strikeouts, and lead the league in K/BB with 4.19 (take that Cliff Lee).  All while pitching in the Great American SmallPark.  The big pitcher- he’s 6’7, 260- has proven that he can be a top pitcher in this league.

Now for the ugly stuff.  Starting in 2008, Harang’s been 18-38.  His lowest WHIP over the last three years was 1.38.  Lead the league in losses with 17 in 2008.  He’s also made $33,250,000.  I think its safe to say his salary has not matched his production recently.

It’s important to remember the type of pitcher that Harang is and the difference that pitching in PetCo will have for his numbers.  The huge ballpark will keep some balls in that may have been out in past years.  Add the fact that he also does not have to pitch in hitter friendly Wrigley Field or with the short porch in Houston as frequently, his numbers should automatically improve.  Also, that pitching coach out in San Diego (Darren Balsley) seems to know what he’s doing.

Harang’s first three starts have proven he’s ready for a big year:  6.0 IP, and 1 ER in each. He’s got a .940 WHIP and looks confident out there. His fastball has reached 94 and more importantly he’s looked good.  He may have lost 5 pounds this winter.  In all seriousness, don’t expect Cy Young numbers from Harang this year but, don’t be surprised if he wins 17 games with a 3.78 ERA and almost 200 K’s.

-Sean Morash

P.S.  Derrick Rose is really really good and fun to watch and can jump really high.