McClanahan recorded 14 outs in a recent intrasquad game, his longest outing in nearly 20 months.
He added 20 pounds of muscle during his recovery, aiming to improve durability.
Coaches and teammates confirm he's performing at pre-injury levels, with his fastball reaching 98-100 mph.
McClanahan is focusing on refining his pitching strategy, including pitch sequencing and using his velocity more strategically.
Why this matters:: McClanahan's successful return is crucial for the Rays' competitiveness in the 2025 season. His performance will be a key factor in their pitching rotation's success.
McClanahan's recovery process included a strict diet and weightlifting regimen, resulting in a significant increase in muscle mass. This physical transformation is intended to reduce stress on his arm throughout the season. Beyond physical recovery, McClanahan has used the time off to develop his pitching approach, drawing inspiration from pitchers like Clayton Kershaw, Justin Verlander, and Corey Kluber. He aims to be more strategic with his pitch selection and velocity, focusing on efficiency and control. The Rays' management will likely implement a cautious approach, potentially limiting his innings or providing extra rest early in the season. However, his overall performance expectations remain high, as evidenced by how well he is doing during practice.
Q: How long was McClanahan out due to injury?
His last regular-season outing before this recovery period was on August 2, 2023, making it almost 20 months before his recent intrasquad game.
Q: What improvements has McClanahan made during his recovery?
He gained 20 pounds of muscle and refined his pitching strategy, focusing on pitch sequencing and controlled velocity.
McClanahan's return is a positive development for the Rays, indicating a strong potential for their 2025 season.
His dedication to improvement during recovery highlights his commitment to excellence.
Fans can expect a potentially more strategic and durable McClanahan on the mound.
Careful management of his workload will be crucial to his and the team's sustained success.
Do you think McClanahan's strategic changes will make him an even more effective pitcher? Let us know! Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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