Wang praised Torre as an outstanding leader during a press conference in his native Taiwan today. Torre rejected a one-year offer to stay with New York last month and was hired to manage the Los Angeles Dodgers.

"I am disappointed by Torre's departure because he has led us very well," Wang said. "I am grateful that he has trusted in me over the past three years and allowed me to play continuously."

Wang went 19-7 with a 3.70 ERA this season, and is expected to help anchor the Yankees staff next year.

He arrived back in his homeland after struggling in the playoffs, going 0-2 with a 19.06 ERA in two starts in the division series against the Cleveland Indians.

But he remained upbeat about his future with the club.

"The Yankees are one of the best teams," he said. "I want to stay with them forever."

Wang said getting used to Girardi would take some time.

"There will always be a period of adjustment after a new manager arrives," he said. "I will get to talk to Girardi and we will get to know each other during spring training."

Yesterday, Torre told Taiwan's TVBS news station that he recently received a note from Wang, saying how much the Taiwanese hurler appreciated their relationship.