Cliff Lee slated to start Thursday's Grapefruit League game
CLEARWATER, Fla. --- Another positive sign in Cliff Lee's path back from last season's season-ending elbow strain came Friday when pitching coach Bob McClure read off his schedule for the first week of spring training games.
CLEARWATER, Fla. --- Another positive sign in Cliff Lee's path back from last season's season-ending elbow strain came Friday when pitching coach Bob McClure read off his schedule for the first week of spring training games.
Lee, whose injury cost him the last two months of last season, is likely to start Thursday's Grapefruit League game against the Houston Astros in Kissimmee, McClure said. The 36-year-old lefthander faced live hitters for the first time on Wednesday when he threw live batting practice.
Lee, slated to pitch two innings in the upcoming start, said after throwing Wednesday that he "felt normal." He will throw another live batting practice session on Saturday.
"He's thrown well," McClure said. "He feels really good, so he's right on schedule."
Jerome Williams is slated to start Tuesday's Grapefruit League opener against the New York Yankees at Bright House Field. Aaron Harang and Cole Hamels are scheduled to start Wednesday and Friday, respectively.
Non-roster invitee Paul Clemens will likely start Sunday's exhibition game against the University of Tampa, McClure said. Relievers Phillippe Aumont, Hector Neris, Nefi Ogando, Andy Oliver and Elvis Araujo will also pitch in the game.