Spring Headlines: Yu Darvish pain free after first bullpen session
The Texas Rangers received good news Monday. Ace Yu Darvish was able to get through his first bullpen session without pain, according to Bob Nightengale of the USA Today.
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Darvish, who had Tommy John surgery last March, threw 15 pitches off a mound during the session. He’s on track to return to the majors in late May or early June depending on whether he can continue to make progress.
The return of the 29-year-old pitcher is a major storyline for the Rangers this season. Prior to the injury, Darvish had emerged as one of the best pitchers in the game. In three seasons in the majors, he’s compiled a 3.27 ERA, with an amazing 680 strikeouts, over 545 1/3 innings.
Once Darvish is able to return, he’ll combine with last season’s trade deadline acquisition Cole Hamels to form one of the more intimidating duos at the top of the rotation. The Rangers managed to make the postseason last year while Darvish was out, but are expected to be a much stronger club if Darvish can return to full health.
OTHER SPRING HEADLINES
Stepping in: Miami Marlins manager Don Mattingly stepped back into the batter’s box in order to get a better look at some of his pitchers. Hitting coach Barry Bonds employed the same strategy recently.[MLB.com]
First time: Boston Red Sox first baseman Hanley Ramirez made his spring debut at the position during the club’s game against Boston College on Monday. Ramirez only had two opportunities during the contest.[CSNNE]
He’s new here: Being a member of the Texas Rangers, and being an outfielder, is new to Ian Desmond, but he’s ready for the challenge. [Tim Brown]
What? New York Mets outfielder Yoenis Cespedes may have bought an award-winning hog at a local county fair. [The Stew]
Done deal: The Boston Red Sox signed outfielder David Murphy to a minor-league deal. [SBNation]
Good news: Sox manager John Farrell managed his first game since undergoing cancer treatment last August. [MLB.com]
The year? Vegas believes the Chicago Cubs will win the most games during the regular season. [The Stew]
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Chris Cwik is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Chris_Cwik
