Johan Santana won’t pitch for the New York Mets this season, but that’s not stopping him from continuing his rehab process. Sunday, Santana threw three innings during a simulated game.
Santana, who’s been working his way back from last September’s season-ending surgery, allowed one hit and struck out four during his rehab outing. After the session, Santana told reporters that he was feeling good.
As long as his arm responds well to Sunday’s appearance, Santana will next pitch in an Instructional League game.
Originally, the Mets were hoping to have Santana back by June or July, but setbacks postponed the left-hander’s return to the point where he wasn’t able to log any Major League innings this season.
Back in August, Santana told the Mets that he had been experiencing “lingering discomfort” in his shoulder. New York shut him down as it was determined Santana was dealing with arm fatigue.
Santana was then able to resume his rehab in September, making a rehab appearance for the Mets Single-A affiliate. At that point New York was still holding out hope that Santana may be able to return before the end of the regular season.
But, as Santana was nearing his next scheduled rehab start, he decided not to pitch. He was again set to take the mound for the Mets Single-A squad, but this time it would be in their championship series. Santana thought this would get him too excited and heighten his chances of a setback.
While they were hoping to get Santana back for the end of the year, the Mets main goal was to have their starter healthy when Spring Training rolls around. At this point, it appears they’ll get their wish as New York believes Santana will be ready to go.
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