Tsuyoshi Wada News

The Fukuoka Softbank Hawks had hoped to absorb the loss of three top pitchers and their starting shortstop to free agency and maintain their high standards, but it appears the defending Japan Series champions may be sinking into mediocrity as the 2012 season approaches its one-third mark.

The shift of frontline starters from the Pacific League to the Central League, combined with the loss of a couple of top PL arms, has raised possibilities that the senior circuit will produce its first interleague title winner this season.

In an effort to boost a rotation that had MLB's worst ERA last season the Orioles brought in a pair of starters who'd thrived in Japan, signing Wei-Yin Chen for $11.3 million and Tsuyoshi Wada for $8.15 million.

Baltimore, MD - Baltimore Orioles left-hander Tsuyoshi Wada had elbow ligament replacement surgery on his pitching arm Friday.

After the marathon game on Sunday, the Orioles have made some moves -- some surprising.

The Baltimore Orioles announced Monday that they have optioned catcher Ronny Paulino and right-hander Tommy Hunter to Triple-A Norfolk, while recalling right-handed pitcher Jason Berken and selecting the contract of righty Stu Pomeranz from the Tides.

The Baltimore Orioles are the surprise team of the early part of the 2012 season.

Baltimore Orioles left-hander Tsuyoshi Wada will have elbow-ligament reconstruction surgery, likely delaying the Japanese left-hander's major league debut for a year.

Source: #Orioles LHP Tsuyoshi Wada will require Tommy John surgery. Signed two-year, $8.15M deal last off-season with club option for 14.

'); } NEW YORK -- Orioles left-hander Tsuyoshi Wada had an MRI exam and a CT scan on his left elbow during a visit to Dr.