Masahiro Tanaka cleared another hurdle this spring training when he threw a two-inning simulated game earlier today in Tampa.
Tanaka threw 29 pitches (23 strikes) and allowed minimal contact. Pitching coach Larry Rothschild was pleased with what he saw, according to beat reporter Bryan Hoch. “He’s exactly where you want him to be at this point in spring training.”
Tanaka has reported no problems with his right elbow, which suffered a partial tear of the UCL ligament last season. With Tommy John Surgery not recommended by three separate doctors, Tanaka rested and rehabbed all offseason.
The next step could be for him to see game action, but the Yankees want to see how he feels tomorrow before making a decision. Earlier in the week there were rumblings that Tanaka was in-line to start next Wednesday against the Braves, although that wasn’t confirmed.
Tanaka, however, feels he’s ready. “Whenever, wherever they want me to go, I think I’m ready to go into a game.”
Tanaka pitching during simulated game in Tampa pic.twitter.com/VD1gZaSdJo
— Sweeny Murti (@YankeesWFAN) March 7, 2015
