WCC Players in the MLB: Dan Haren

Jun 22, 2013; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals pitcher Dan Haren (15) throws a pitch during the game against the Colorado Rockies at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

The former Pepperdine Wave star has made a name for himself in the MLB as a starting pitcher, and has experienced a great deal of success. Dan Haren is a currently a member of the Washington Nationals, and a former member of the St. Louis Cardinals, Oakland Athletics, Arizona Diamondbacks, and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. This is a short recap of Dan Haren’s 10 year career. However, first here is a look at Haren’s time in Malibu playing for the University of Pepperdine.

While at Pepperdine, Haren combined with former Wave and San Francisco Giant Noah Lowry as the best one-two punch in the West Coast Conference. In the 2001 season, Haren posted a 2.22 ERA, and accumulated a 7-3 record in WCC play. He also played in the field for the Waves, and hit .311 at the plate. His stellar play as a position player and as a pitcher earned him the honor of WCC player of the year. He was drafted in the 2nd round by the St. Louis Cardinals with 72nd overall pick.

While in the MLB, Haren has had a great deal of success as a starting pitcher, especially while playing with the A’s and the D-Backs. From 2007 to 2009, Haren pitched on the American League and National League all-star teams. In that three-year stretch, Haren posted a 45-27 record, and an ERA of 3.18. His career ERA is a 3.76, and he has a career winning percentage of .537.

Dan Haren has pitched very well in his 10 year career, but this season, Haren has struggled with injuries and his performance has dipped as a result of it. Haren’s ERA this season is 6.14, way above of what it usually is.