Phillies ace Cole Hamels took another positive step forward in his recovery today after throwing a successful bullpen session. After a few flat-ground throwing sessions, Hamels felt very good about his 33-pitch outing in the bullpen, stating that he felt pain-free afterwards.
In November, Hamels had to shut down his offseason workout program after experiencing shoulder tendinitis issues. Currently about two weeks behind the rest of the pitching staff, the Phils lefty will throw two more bullpen sessions before live batting practice at some point next week. Cole said he could possibly debut for the Phillies in Spring Training in about two weeks.
If no problems arise, Hamels return date for regular season action will still not be Opening Day, as the Phillies are take every necessary precaution with him. Despite that timetable, the Phillies have two days off in the first eight days of the season, giving Cole the opportunity to miss less starts if the team opts to go with a four-man rotation.
Everything Hamels did today in the bullpen was full force. Pitching coach Bob McClure was impressed by what he saw, saying Cole looked free and easy, but most importantly, 100% healthy.
Brandon Apter is a contributor to Philliedelphia. Follow him on Twitter @ApterShock
