LISTEN: Joe Girardi Praises Yankees Starting Pitchers
NEW YORK (WFAN) -- One reason the Yankees are still alive in the American League wild-card chase is their starting pitching.
In his weekly appearance on Mike Francesa's WFAN show Thursday, manager Joe Girardi spoke glowingly of his hurlers.
LISTEN: Yankees' Cashman Says He's Not Second-Guessing Plans For Judge, Severino
Girardi said ace Masahiro Tanaka, who has won his last six starts, has been more consistent and accurate with his location this season.
"It's the first year that he's been to this many innings, so we've been somewhat concerned," Girardi said. "But he looks good. He continues to throw well. We like what he's doing.
"I just think he's used his fastball more effectively this year, and I think his sinker has helped him."
Girardi also praised Luis Cessa, Chad Green and Bryan Mitchell. Making his first appearance of the season Wednesday night, Mitchell tossed five scoreless innings in a 2-0 victory over Toronto.
"We didn't know what to expect from Bryan Mitchell," Girardi said. "He's kind of been inconsistent in his last few starts (in the minors), and we weren't sure what we were going to get."
The Yankees' skipper also said he's been pleased with CC Sabathia, despite his 8-12 record.
"If you look at the soft contact that he's induced, he's done a really good job of doing that this year," Girardi said. "And sometimes we haven't made the plays. Sometimes they've taken funny bounces. Sometimes they've been in the hole. But I look at his year, and he should have more than eight wins, there's no doubt in my mind. And I've been pleased with what he's done."
To listen to the full interview, click on the audio player above.
