BRADENTON – Jared Hughes was originally set to begin his rehab assignment today with Indianapolis. However, he was pushed back a day after coming down with the flu at the start of the week. He’s flying out today, and will join Indianapolis tomorrow for the start of his rehab.
Hughes will throw back-to-back days, which is usually the final step of a reliever’s rehab before he can return to the active roster. That means Hughes could be in line for a quick rehab assignment.
“It’s up to them,” Hughes said on the rehab time. “I’m sure we’ll talk about it. I’ll be honest with how I feel, they’ll them understand that, and bring back how they see fit. But my guess is it could be a short rehab.”
Hughes said his left lat muscle healed up well and is feeling strong. He threw two innings the other day, going full effort, and had no discomfort the next day. When asked if he thinks he could return soon, there was no hesitation with his answer.
“Absolutely,” Hughes said. “I feel close. I feel strong. As long as I can go out there and let it go with no pain, and be throwing 100%, I don’t see why I wouldn’t be [able to return soon].”
It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Hughes joining the Pirates by the weekend, especially if he has no setbacks the next two days.