Continuing his determined journey back to the mound, Texas Rangers’ standout right-hander Nathan Eovaldi completed another productive bullpen session emulating approximately three innings of play.
In a bullpen workout held at Globe Life Field on Wednesday, Eovaldi engaged in two “up-downs,” effectively simulating the demands of about three innings of pitching, as reported by MLB.com. Encouragingly, Eovaldi experienced no physical setbacks and remains on track to participate in another bullpen session during the upcoming home weekend series against the Milwaukee Brewers.
In recent practice sessions, Eovaldi has noticeably intensified his training regimen. During the recent road trip encompassing stops in Oakland and San Francisco, he took to the mound on two occasions. Of particular note was his latter bullpen session, characterized by increased effort and a pitch count of around 40, akin to the workload of two innings of play.
Eovaldi’s progress signals a significant rebound from the right forearm strain that led to his inclusion on the injured list last month.
A potential return to action looms on the horizon, possibly occurring later this month. Eovaldi could undertake a rehab assignment to gradually build up his pitch count before rejoining the active roster, or the Rangers may opt to activate him directly, managing his workload through shorter stints on the mound.
This strategic approach draws parallels to the manner in which the team handled Jacob deGrom’s return earlier in the season.
General Manager Chris Young shared with 105.3 The Fan that the team is committed to an approach that balances expeditious progress with prudent caution, moving “as fast as we can but as slow as we need to” with Eovaldi’s recovery.
Eovaldi’s post-All-Star break participation has been limited to a single start, a commendable six-inning shutout performance on July 18 against Tampa Bay at Globe Life Field. His impressive season stats include an 11-3 record and a formidable 2.69 ERA. As Eovaldi diligently works his way back, the anticipation builds for his return to bolster the Rangers’ pitching prowess once more.