8:39AM Wednesday
March 6, 2013

It's always interesting and nerve-racking to watch a pitcher return and throw for the first time since Tommy John surgery. -That's exactly what Mike Pelfrey did yesterday. -The New York Mets' pitcher made his first start since undergoing surgery May of 2012.

Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com says Pelfrey looked solid in his return and had decent fastball velocity.

Pelfrey, making his first start since Tommy John surgery on May 1, was sitting at about 88 mph. Avg fastball velocity for career is 92.6 mph

- Rhett Bollinger (@RhettBollinger) February 26, 2013

Pelfrey's return is impressive because he is pitching in a competitive environment again less than one year after the surgery. -He is further proof that Tommy John surgery is not as frightening as it used to be and that players can rehab and get back on the field in less time than they used to be able to.

Pelfrey will be a key part of the Mets' rotation this year. -He was drafted by the Mets and has ...