Yankees reliever Aroldis Chapman’s first minor-league rehab outing since his left Achilles became an issue more than a month ago was a big success.
Besides the lefty pitching well for the Double-A Somerset Patriots on Friday night, his velo was 96-99 mph and his pickoff move was impressive.
Facing the Hartford Goats in Bridgewater Township, N.J., Chapman needed only eight pitches to work a scoreless seventh inning with one strikeout. The second batter of the inning doubled to left, but took off for third on a steal attempt and promptly was picked off by Chapman, who stepped off the mound and threw to third base for the out.
Chapman has been on the injured list since May 24 with left Achilles tendinitis. He was 0-2 with a 3.86 ERA with nine saves in 17 outings with the Yankees. When returning, Chapman is expected to pitch in a late-inning setup role because he’s lost his closer job to Clay Holmes, who has been one of if not the best reliever in the majors this season.
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Chapman likely will pitch in at least one more minor-league game before being activated from the IL.
“I’m excited about getting Chapman back healthy, another impactful arm in our bullpen.
Randy Miller may be reached at rmiller@njadvancemedia.com.
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