Rodriguez says ‘his arm feels good’ after bullpen throwing session

BALTIMORE — Orioles pitcher Grayson Rodriguez threw his first bullpen session Tuesday since being sidelined with a pitching shoulder injury (right lat/teres), which occurred when he felt discomfort before his scheduled start on Aug. 6.

“My shoulder feels good and I think the most important thing now is to be able to get back on the mound and give it a few good kicks,” he said at the Baltimore clubhouse before the Orioles’ game against the Chicago White Sox.

The 24-year-old said he threw about 20 balls, a mix of fastballs and slower stuff. He’s not sure when his next bullpen session will be. He only said it will be sooner rather than later.

One thing is for sure. He’s in no hurry.

“Of course you want to get back out there as soon as possible. But first and foremost, make sure you’re healthy. That way you can at least make a few more (starts) in the postseason instead of rushing and falling back a little bit more,” he said.

Rodriguez, who is tied with Corbin Burns for the team lead with 13 wins, is one of a handful of players trying to return from injury, including relievers Jacob Webb and Danny Coulombe, starter Dean Kremer and third baseman Jordan Westburg.

Rodriguez said there will be need to be cautions as the Birds return to health.

“I don’t think anyone wants to face us, especially with everybody back (and) we’re going full throttle. I think a lot of guys are confident in that. We’re still playing good baseball. So I think we’re just going to look forward.”

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