Gibson on Putz: ‘This is a work in progress’
Jul 11, 2013, 1:55 AM | Updated: 2:14 am
Arizona Diamondbacks relief pitcher J.J. Putz has been back on the mound for two weeks after spending nearly two months on the disabled list with a strained shoulder.
Putz has pitched in five games since his return from the disabled list allowing one earned run off two hits in 3.2 innings. He has struck out two and walked one.
Diamondbacks manager Kirk Gibson gave his thoughts of where Putz’s arm strength was prior to Wednesday night’s game against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
“He threw the ball good (last night) and is throwing better every time out,” Gibson stated. “Velocity is good, slider is really good and he is keeping the ball down.”
The closer blew his first save chance last week against the New York Mets and was demoted to set-up duties until his arm strength fully returned.
“I didn’t say that,” Gibson stated about if Putz would return to closing duties. “This is a work in progress.”
