Friars Reliever Progressing in Rehab Stints

Padres reliever Drew Pomeranz last pitched in the major leagues in 2021. The lefty reliever was considered one of the best when he was healthy, but unfortunately, he hasn't been healthy. 

It seems like he is heading in the right direction, as a couple of days ago, he was cleared for rehab assignments and pitched on Friday for the Padres single-A minor league team Lake Elsinore Storm. 

Padres insider for the San Diego Tribune, Jeff Sanders, updated us on Pomeranz, and he looked good in his outing. 

Left-hander Drew Pomeranz needed 10 pitches — seven strikes — to get through his second rehab outing, backing up five strong innings from left-hander Robby Snelling in low Single-A Lake Elsinore’s 7-1 win over visiting Modesto.

It was his second game for the Storm, and he's been fantastic in his outings. Drew has allowed zero hits and runs, struck out one batter, and has only thrown 22 pitches. 

The left-hander was as solid as it comes for the Friars in 2021. He had a 1.75 ERA in 27 games, 30 Ks, and only allowed five earned runs and 19 hits in his appearances. 

The 34-year-old was placed on the 15-day IL to start the season off due to a neck injury. The lefty reliever also suffered a flexor tendon in his forearm in 2021 and missed the entire 2022 season. 

Injuries have riddled the veteran pitcher, but he's fighting tooth and nail through injuries and is poised to make a comeback.