Injury update on Johan Santana
The Baltimore Orioles are getting good news on pitcher Johan Santana who had his first extended spring training game today. Santana is coming off two shoulder surgeries in three years and was out of baseball last season. When the Orioles signed Santana to a minor league deal at the beginning of spring training Santana could barely throw 80 mph.
Santana’s velocity is improving according to this article from the Baltimore Sun. Santana’s velocity is itching up close to 90 mph, hitting as high as 89 mph. This is a very good sign for the Orioles and Santana. There was no way Santana was going to be able to get Major League hitters out throwing 80 mph with his fastball.
Santana’s arm strength is clearly improving and this now he could be close. Giving Santana’s experience and control I think he will be able to contribute to the Orioles even if he never returns to the pitcher that he once was with the Minnesota Twins and New York Mets.
The Orioles could use Santana as a long man until he is more comfortable and stretch him out to being a starter once again.
