Rick Anderson, Twins pitching coach, was asked if he thought Francisco Liriano’s injury could be career ending. While not predicting when the 22-year-old Liriano will pitch again, he said there is no doubt the sensational rookie left hander will pitch again. He has not been pitching since earlier in the month because of a sore left elbow and forearm.
The 49-year-old Anderson said before the injury Liriano’s strength in his shoulders was probably less than his. “He’s just a kid that didn’t understand (how to take care of himself),” Anderson said. “He thought he had been doing stuff to keep his arm strong but he didn’t do the right things.”
Anderson said Johan Santana’s work ethic, including during the off season, is exemplary and he hopes the former Cy Young winner will take Liriano “under his wing.” Strengthening the left shoulder will be an off-season priority for Liriano and Anderson praised Santana as a pitcher who works continuously on strength and conditioning during the fall and winter.
How special is it to have two pitchers with the talents of Liriano and Santana?
“It’s not often you get to have two of them on your staff like that,” Anderson answered. “One of them is absolutely great but (having) two is a bonus. … you got the one that is a 27- year- old veteran, and you’ve got the kid to be able to follow him.”