Injured Rays seeing progress in recoveries
Pitchers Odorizzi, Bellatti and Smyly all threw for first time this weekend, DH Jaso hit in cage
ST. PETERSBURG -- Rays starting pitcher Jake Odorizzi and relief pitcher Andrew Bellatti played catch for the first time on Sunday, marking the first step in their return to the Rays.
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Odorizzi, who was placed on the 15-day disabled list on Tuesday with a left-oblique strain after making an early exit from his start on June 5, and Bellatti (right shoulder tightness) threw to each other 20 times from 60 feet. Odorizzi also threw 20 more sock throws and said that he felt "no pain" while throwing.
"Everything is on schedule, just like I had it drawn up in my head," Odorizzi said. "My body has allowed that to happen. It just feels good and everything is where it needs to be right now."
Odorizzi and Bellatti join left-handed pitcher Drew Smyly (torn left labrum) and designated hitter/outfielder John Jaso (left wrist contusion) in the group of Rays who have begun their rehabilitation from the disabled list.
Smyly also played catch for the first time on Saturday, throwing 20 times from 45-60 feet, and reported that he felt good. Jaso hit in the batting cage on Saturday and also fielded ground balls at first base.