Chicago Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly will make one more minor league rehab start before rejoining the Cubs. Lilly had hoped to come back after Wednesday’s game, his first rehab start.
Lilly will start on Monday in Peoria, Ill. for the Single-A Chiefs. If he throws without mishap, he’s on target to pitch next weekend against the Brewers in Milwaukee.
Lilly’s preference was to pitch in the majors his next time out, but he was convinced by Cubs management that this was the more prudent approach.
Lilly threw 51 pitches in a rehab start in Iowa on Wednesday. He went four innings and was held back from throwing 60-plus pitches to protect him from any recurring back issues. According to major league rules, Lilly can end his rehab any time he chooses by telling the Cubs he is ready to pitch. ESPN Chicago.
Ultimately, given the numerous setbacks, a late April return should make all Cubs fans happy.