Burnes back on mound after Tommy John: 'Felt like myself'

Pitcher Corbin Burnes has taken a major step in his recovery by participating in his first bullpen session since undergoing Tommy John surgery. On Friday, March 13, Burnes threw 15 pitches, consisting of cut fastballs and sinkers, and reported feeling like his former self. He was encouraged by his velocity, reaching 91 mph, which aligns with his pre-surgery performance.

Burnes expressed particular satisfaction with his command, noting that 13 of his 15 pitches were strikes. He also confirmed that the movement on his cutter and sinker appeared normal. The 31-year-old, currently in the second year of a six-year, $210 million deal, had a 2.66 ERA in 11 starts before his surgery in June. He is now focused on a gradual increase in arm load, incorporating breaking balls soon, and expects to begin facing hitters in the coming months, with a target return date around July.