Halladay throws bullpen, is 'progressing very nicely'

MIAMI – Charlie Manuel thinks his team can make a playoff push in the second half. For that to happen, he believes his club must “add something to the bullpen,” and get a healthy Roy Halladay back.

 

The second half of that equation looks promising.

 

Halladay on Friday afternoon threw off a bullpen mound for the first time since going on the disabled list late last month with a strained lat muscle behind his right shoulder. Halladay threw 33 pitches and used his entire repertoire. Pitching coach Rich Dubee was encouraged. He said Halladay might be a little ahead of schedule in his recovery.

 

“Again, we’re talking about a different animal,” Dubee said. “He might be a few days quicker than the doctors thought, but his work ethic might have something to do with that.”

 

Dubee said Halladay had no discomfort.

 

“He’s progressing very nicely,” Dubee said.

 

What’s next?

 

Dubee said he wanted to see how Halladay bounced back Saturday before scheduling his next bullpen session.

 

Halladay last pitched on May 27. Initial estimates had him out six to eight weeks. The start of All-Star break would mark six weeks since Halladay went on the disabled list. If all continues to go well, it’s reasonable to believe he could return shortly after play resumes July 13. Ryan Howard could also return to the lineup about that time.

 

Dubee did not rule out Halladay’s needing a minor-league start before he’s activated, but he added that one would not be imperative.