FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Despite coming off surgery to alleviate thoracic outlet syndrome in July, Twins right-hander Phil Hughes followed his normal offseason routine and on Wednesday threw his first official bullpen without any issues during the first day of pitcher and catcher workouts.
Hughes, who had a rib removed to relieve pressure on his right shoulder, said he completed his throwing program on the last day of the regular season, which allowed him to prepare for this year like he would any other. He threw off a mound for the first time in December, and he said Wednesday was the fifth or sixth bullpen he has completed since.