Hiroki Kuroda Proves He Belongs with Yankees After Dominant Win over Angels

Hiroki Kuroda's abilities have been doubted all spring long, but the New York Yankees' No. 2 starter more than proved he belongs after dominating the Los Angeles Angels en route to a 5-0 win on the Bombers' Opening Day.

Kuroda went eight shutout innings (failed to retire any batters in the ninth) for the Yanks, allowing only five hits and two walks while striking out six.

He exited after one batter in the ninth, and the Yankee faithful applauded his efforts with a well-deserved standing ovation.

To put his great performance into perspective, Kuroda held the Angels' No. 2-through-6 hitters to a 2-for-17 day with five strikeouts.

Kuroda's command looked much better than it was against the Tampa Bay Rays in his first start, and he appeared surprisingly relaxed in such a tough spot.

It's difficult enough to pitch in the Bronx, but to add to that, Kuroda had to make his Yankee Stadium debut in the Bombers' home opener against a potential playoff team in front of a capacity crowd.

Kuroda passed his first pressure-packed test with flying colors, and that ability to deal well with pressure is a trait necessary to make it with the Yankees.

This type of performance will not only erase most of the doubts about Kuroda's viability in the American League, but it will also help endear him to Yankee fans much faster.

Every great Yankee has that moment of endearment when they come through for the team and, in turn, help build popularity and trust amongst their fanbase.

Kuroda's outing has been the best, by far, of any Yankee starter in the early going, and there is no longer any question about it—Kuroda belongs on the mound, and more importantly, in pinstripes.