Report: Tanaka Completes Bullpen Session, Hopes To Throw In ’14

According to Yankees’ beat writer Brendan Kuty of NJ.com, Bombers’ rookie starting pitcher Masahiro Tanaka completed a 34-pitch bullpen session Saturday afternoon at Yankee Stadium prior to the start of Game Two of the Yankees’ weekend series with the Kansas City Royals.

The 25-year-old Japanese import suffered a slight tear of his UCL in his pitching elbow, and had previously been shutdown while a decision was made as to whether Tommy John surgery or rest and rehab were the best options. Tanaka at the time of his injury, was leading the American League in wins with 12, and was among the league leaders in both strikeouts and ERA.

At the conclusion of his bullpen session, Tanaka told reporters that he felt “stronger” and that the fatigue was gone after having been shutdown for so long while his elbow healed. Heading into action today, the Yankees have 19 games remaining. Pitching hasn’t necessarily been the issue for the Yankees, but an inconsistent offense that hasn’t been able to string together runs for a quality pitching staff.