Thursday, August 09, 2001
Rijo's return closer
By John Fay
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Jose Rijo still says he's ready to pitch in the major leagues right now. The Reds still don't think he's ready.
But after Wednesday's simulated session in which Rijo threw 40 pitches and allowed only one hard-hit ball, the Reds are closer to activating Rijo.
“I think we're seeing a miracle happen,” Reds manager Bob Boone said. “It's not the time to be impatient. We don't want to do anything in haste. He's not on the team today.”
Rijo reiterated he does not want to pitch at Triple-A Louisville again.
“Why would I?” he said. “What good would it do? Am I going to help them win at Triple A?”
But after meeting with Reds general manager Jim Bowden, Rijo agreed to make another appearance at Louisville.
“We were very impressed (Wednesday),” Bowden said. “It was his best outing yet. His forkball was his best pitch. Very encouraging. We'll evaluate him again after Saturday.”
Rijo is attempting to come back after four major surgeries on his right elbow. He has not pitched in the big leagues since 1995.
In the simulated session, his fastball was in the 86-88 mph range and twice hit 89.
“He was much better than when we saw him before,” Boone said. “He had more arm speed. His command was very good, and the velocity on his fastball was up.”
Rijo's fastball only hit the mid-80s when Boone, Bowden and Don Gullett went to Louisville to see him pitch July 26.
“There's no question (he'll pitch for the Reds),” Gullett said. “When? I don't know.”
Reds Stories
Warrick, Dugans seek atonement
Dillon to start Friday
Sampras blames ball for loss
Tennis Masters schedule, results
Big stars out, rising stars in
Harlem native in tennis spotlight today
Kafelnikov speaks mind on game's future
Gambill has game and looks
Tennis Masters Notebook
Tennis Masters facts
Speedway smooths out bumps
Golf course spotlight: A.J. Jolly
Senior tourney will reward fan for ace
• Return to Reds front page...
Rijo's return closer
