Michael Pineda is on his way back to the majors, as earlier today he made his first rehab start for High-A Tampa against Lakeland, the Tigers’ High-A affiliate. Pineda pitched well, as he went 4.2 innings, with four strikeouts, one walk, two hits, and only allowed one unearned run. A solid step for the injured right-hander and, most importantly, there were no setbacks.
Pineda debuted for the Mariners in 2011 and went 9-10 with a 3.74 ERA and a 1.10 WHIP. He also averaged more than a strikeout an inning as he struck out 173 batters in 171 innings. The Yankees acquired him for Jesus Montero and Hector Noesi after that stellar rookie season, but has yet to pitch for the Bombers. His debut in pinstripes is long awaited.
So, all signs are pointing to a Pineda return sometime later this month, which would only add more power to the Yankees already solid pitching staff, which is 4th in the American League with a 3.66 ERA.
