Los Angeles Times' Mike DiGiovanna reports that RyanMadson, signed this winter with hopes of him claiming the Halo's closer role, may not be ready to make the opening bell.


Madson, 32, underwent Tommy John surgery last April, which caused the then Cincinnati Red to miss the entire 2012 season.  The Angels signed the 6'6", 202 lb. right-hander to a one-year deal in November.  The Long Beach, California native recorded a career high 32 saves as a member of the 2011 Philadelphia Phillies.

Madson threw 20 pitches off a mound on Monday and is expecting to reach 25 pitches by Friday.  Angels GM Jerry Dipoto commented on Madsons’ progress.  “We’ll be conservative with him,” Dipoto said. “Whether he’s ready to go on opening day or requires a little more time, I don’t anticipate too long of a delay. He’s in great shape. … We’re optimistic it could be opening day, but realistic that it might take little more time to get him ready.”

Still, Madson will not pitch in exhibition games until mid-March, a schedule that could prevent the right-hander from opening the season with the team.




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