Two More Rehab Starts for Phil Hughes

Phil Hughes made his first rehab start on Sunday for the Staten Island Yankees, and the organization was very happy with the results.

Hughes threw 61 pitches in 4.1 innings, struck out seven, and allowed just one run on three hits. Most encouraging, Hughes threw his fastball in the 92-93 mph range, and topped out at 95 mph. He was also happy with his control, as he threw 41 of his 61 pitches for strikes, good for 67%. At one point, he had retired eleven batters in a row before getting lifted after allowing a solo homer.

Due to his strengthened shoulder and improved velocity, Joe Girardi confirmed that Hughes will make two more rehab starts before rejoining the Yankees. 

On Friday, Hughes will pitch for the Yankees' Double-A affiliate, the Trenton Thunder, in New Britain against the Rock Cats. Following that start, Hughes will most likely pitch for the Yankees' Triple-A affiliate, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees, before joining the big club at some point before the All-Star break.

Here's to hoping for two healthy starts.