Cincinnati Reds' Aroldis Chapman expected to return this weekend – MLB News
Cincinnati Reds' closer Aroldis Chapman is expected to return to the mound this weekend, as he will reportedly play catch on Thursday, September 20. The closer who was shut-down with left shoulder fatigue had his first bullpen session on Wednesday.
Chapman had thrown 25 pitches in that bullpen session. That was good news for the Reds and the closer himself as well at a time when the club seems all set to play postseason games.
Reds are occupying the top slot in the National League Central. Chapman had a big role to play in the success that the Reds achieved this season. He had no less than 35 saves in his 64 appearances.
The Reds' pitching coach Bryan Price had supervised Wednesday’s bullpen session and seemed satisfied with how Chapman performed as he tossed 25 pitches.
"He threw the ball well -- no inhibitions, no shoulder fatigue," Price said. "It was crisp. Repetition certainly helps. It's hard to go a week without throwing off of the mound and feel completely acute. But the arm really worked well. The velocity and rotation was good."
It was on September 10 that Chapman pitched the last time as he was shut-down. Part of the reason why the Reds decided to make this decision was the fact that he had struggled in the last two games.
Chapman, nonetheless, also admitted that he needed to throw a few times to improve his command, something which he finds missing at this point in time. Playing catch on Thursday will further show if the closer has regained the form and command to pitch the way he was previously pitching.
As for Wednesday’s session that he had, Chapman seemed quite satisfied when he said he threw normal in the bullpen, having had a good session.
With 1.60 ERA, Chapman has performed really well this season. Having had 119 strike-outs in 67.2 innings that he has pitched with 35 saves. With an accomplished closer regaining his form back, the Reds hope they will be able to effectively deal with the rivals in the coming games.
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