Medical update on right-handed pitcher Hisashi Iwakuma

PEORIA, Ariz. -- Seattle Mariners Executive Vice President & General Manager of Baseball Operations Jack Zduriencik announced today the following medical update on right-handed pitcher Hisashi Iwakuma:

Iwakuma, who has been sidelined since the start of spring training by a strained tendon in the middle finger on his right hand, was re-examined today in Arizona.

Hand specialist Dr. Don Sheridan, who saw previously examined Iwakume, re-examined him today.

Dr. Sheridan confirmed that Iwakuma is progressing well, but has recommended that his finger remain in a splint for three more weeks, as he originally recommended.

Iwakuma will continue to do shoulder exercises and work on his conditioning, and will be able to resume throwing as soon as the splint is removed.