New York Yankees: Another Switch Pitcher?

In my recent post Old School St. Louis Baseball: Part 2, I wrote about 19th century pitching star Tony Mullane, who is best remembered today for his ability to pitch with both hands.

Well, it turns out there is another switch-pitcher playing professionally right now.  His name is Pat Venditte, and he’s in the Yankees’ system.  Here’s an AP wire article about him.

Venditte was taken in the 20th round of last year’s draft, because he was already 23 in his last year in college at Creighton, where he started as a walk-on.  He pitched in Rookie Ball last year and is currently playing in the Class A South Atlantic (Sally) league.  These leagues are below the level  of a pitcher with his level of college success, and he has completely dominated them. 

So far in his professional career, he has 37 saves in 49 appearances, with a 0.85 ERA, and 74 K’s, 29 hits allowed and 11 BBs in 53.2.  The Yankees should have him pitching at Tampa in the A+ Florida State League already.

According to the article, as right-hander Venditte throws the ball over the top and can hit 90 mph with his fastball.  As a left-hander, he throws side-arm and gets more break on his pitches.  He apparently has great command with both sides.  Needless to say, the Yankees have decided to let him pitch from both sides until he proves he isn’t good enough to do it.