 Like many
other foreign players who have come to Japan,
Travis Driskill is planning some changes. The
career-minor leaguer intends to go by the name
"Driskie," not only because it's easier
for Japanese fans to pronounce but apparently
because it will have a good ring when he appears
on the same scoreboard with Yakult outfielder
Dwayne Hosey.A
graduate of Texas Tech University, Driskill
joined the Cleveland Indians organization in
1993, eventually working his way up to AAA with
the Buffalo Bisons in 1997. Leading the team to a
rare championship that year, Driskill posted an 8-7
record with 102 strikeouts, 60 walks, and a 4.65
ERA. Since 1993, he's compiled a 34-29 career
minor league record with 42 saves and a 3.01 ERA
in 189 games.
Considering the high number of
injuries and burned-out arms that have plagued
Yakult's pitching staff, Driskill's trouble-free
past appears to have been his selling point with
the team. "He has had very few injuries and
he has lots of energy," said Swallows
director of planning Kanji Maruyama.
Driskie also good tools, including a
145 kph (92 mph) fastball, a sharp-breaking
curve, and a good slider.
|
|
 |
| #
42 |
| Starting |
| Pitcher |
| Born:
8-1-71 |
| Height:
182 cm |
| Weight:
84 kg |
| Bats:
Right |
| Throws:
Right |
|
