Chris Bassitt flashed a big smile in the A’s clubhouse on Wednesday. The pitcher took a big step following Tommy John surgery, throwing to hitters for the first time since his May 2016 operation.
“First time on the mound after surgery,” Bassitt said, “it’s not so much excitement. It’s way, way more nerves.”
The right-hander threw 25 pitches to Mark Canha and Adam Rosales, all fastballs, after throwing 25 pitches off a bullpen mound. He said he felt good and is scheduled to do something similar Sunday at Class A Stockton.