Recovering top prospect Sano set to begin throwing

SEATTLE -- Top prospect Miguel Sano's six-month checkup with Dr. David Altchek in New York went well on Monday, and the third baseman has been cleared to start a throwing program, according to his agent, Rob Plummer.

Sano, ranked as the No. 3 overall prospect by MLB.com, can start doing light throwing exercises as soon as Tuesday, and could be cleared to start swinging a bat in about a month.

"He was all smiles," Plummer said about Sano.

The Twins remain hopeful that Sano will be able to serve as a designated hitter late in the Minor League season, as well as possibly seeing action in the Arizona Fall League or in the Dominican Winter League to make up for lost time. But he'd have to get permission from his Winter League team, Estrellas, to play in the Fall League.

Sano played in just two games with Estrellas in the offseason before feeling elbow pain. He ultimately underwent Tommy John surgery on March 12, with Altchek performing the operation.

Sano was joined at his meeting on Monday by Plummer and the same film crew that shot the documentary, "Pelotero" that showcased his journey of signing with the Twins out of the Dominican Republic. The film crew is working on a sequel detailing Sano's rise through the Minors to the big leagues.