The NC Dinos are trying to figure out how to utilize ‘foreign ace’ Eric Pedi for the rest of the season.
“The key is how to deploy him in the remaining schedule,” NC manager Kang Myung-hyun told reporters after the game against the KIA Tigers at Kia Champions Field in Gwangju was rained out on the 30th, “and we are discussing various options with our pitching coach.”
Pedi, who was a five-star starter in the U.S. Major League Baseball until last year, has proven to be a class act in the KBO this season. As of Sept. 30, he has pitched in 22 games and 132⅓ innings with a 16-5 record and a 1.97 ERA. With 15 of his 22 starts being quality starts (6+ innings pitched, 3 earned runs allowed or less), he has proven to be an innings-eater, and his high winning percentage has helped NC fight for the middle of the pack.
“The most innings Pedi has pitched in a season so far is 146. There were concerns about the idea that he would have to pitch 180 to 200 innings if he was the first starter in the KBO,” Kang said. “He skipped one rotation in the summer because of physical fitness and injury concerns, but he has been doing well physically so far.” As for whether he will compete for the MVP this season, he said, “If he accumulates more wins, he will be the favorite.” “There are competitors like Noh Si-hwan (Hanwha), but if you look at the past, it seems to be more favorable to pitchers,” he said. “We have seen outstanding foreign pitchers such as Dustin Nippert and Drew Luchinski, but among them, Pedi has the strongest competitive spirit and fighting spirit.”스포츠토토
We’re looking forward to seeing him play a role in the final push for the NC. With 18 games remaining, NC has a tough stretch ahead of them in October, with a three-game road trip and two-game home series against SSG Landers, followed by a two-game series against Hanwha Eagles before traveling to Gwangju for two games against KIA. In addition, the remaining games after September 10 will also have a tight schedule. The key is how to utilize the ‘calculating’ Pedi as they need to add even one more win.
“I’m still thinking about what kind of game Pedi will play and how the domestic starting rotation will be arranged afterward,” Kang said. “That’s also a consideration,” he said of Pedi’s possible start after four days of rest. We will also consider (new foreign player) Tanner’s schedule and make a comprehensive decision.”