At 6-15, the Kansas City Royals could use all they can get this 2012 MLB season as they try to climb back up the AL Central standings after a disastrous 12 game losing skid. Felipe Paulino can't heal all wounds, but the versatile pitcher can certainly add another important arm in the rotation and bullpen -- whatever is needed for Ned Yost's team. While he's been out with injury so far this season, his rehab is progressing well enough that he should rejoin the team soon.
In yesterday's game for AA Northwest Arkansas, Paulino was dominant and held the opposition without a single baserunner for the first four innings.
"He threw the ball easier than he did five days ago," manager Brian Poldberg said, referring to Paulino's first rehab start on April 25, when he allowed three runs in four innings with eight strikeouts. "His endurance was good, he got his pitch count up where he wanted to, and hopefully he's ready to go help the big league club."
In total, he threw six-plus shutout innings and allowed four hits and no walks to go with five strikeouts. Those are the promising numbers the team was hoping to see.
There is still no official word of when Paulino will rejoin the major league team.