On Thursday afternoon, the Padres’ clubhouse began hearing rumors about a potentially thrilling development: Yu Darvish might be making a return.
“I had heard some whispers the day before, so I’m not sure when I officially found out, but it was a rumor that was circulating,” said fellow pitcher Dylan Cease.
Cease and the rest of the Padres learned the news Thursday night when Darvish sent a group text announcing his return to Petco Park.
After a prolonged stint on the Restricted List due to a personal issue he chose not to elaborate on, Darvish reappeared on Friday afternoon, first joining the team on the dugout’s top step before heading to right field to warm up and later throwing a bullpen session.
However, Darvish won’t be back on the mound right away. He remains on the Injured List but reports no pain from the elbow that had been troubling him. Darvish is in a buildup phase and anticipates returning to the Padres’ starting rotation within a few weeks.
His return would be a significant boost for the team, which has serious playoff hopes.
“It feels like you’ve gained some wisdom,” said manager Mike Shildt, who will eventually have the pleasure of including Darvish back in the lineup. “Having experienced players who know how this time of year feels is definitely a positive.”
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