Look closely at the Charlotte Stone Crabs’ lineup card (above). Listed as the Opening Day starter is LHP Drew Smyly.
As I previously wrote, Smyly will start his rehab stint with the Class A Charlotte Stone Crabs in their Florida State League opener on Thursday. Kevin Cash told Bill Chastain (MLB.com) that the team wants to get him back as soon as possible, which might mean bringing him back once he’s built up to handle 75 pitches.
Smyly was asked about that,
I want to get back as soon as possible, but right now, it’s just one game at a time. I have to feel confident and ready to face Major League hitters. Can’t just jump in there. (Otherwise) I don’t know if I’ll do the team that much good. But I’m hoping to do that as soon as I can.
Smyly should know more about his progress following his outing,
Yeah. I haven’t even thrown a game yet, Smyly said. When I get out there and face hitters, see how I’m competing with my pitches, I’ll know a lot more. But right now, I can’t really say.