MIAMI (AP) — Johan Santana says he might begin a minor-league rehabilitation assignment next week, which would be a big step in his comeback from shoulder surgery last September.
The New York Mets ace threw batting practice to hitters for the third time Friday at the team complex in Port St. Lucie, Fla. He’s scheduled to throw a bullpen session Sunday at the Florida Marlins’ stadium before the Mets’ game there, and if that workout goes well, he’ll likely be headed to the minors.
Santana hopes to pitch for the Mets this season, but he said there’s no timetable for his return to the majors. The left-hander said he’s still building up strength in his shoulder.
Last season Santana went 11-9 with a 2.98 ERA in 29 starts for New York before being sidelined.
