Chicago Cubs’ starting pitcher Scott Baker took more steps in his return to Major League action. Baker threw a 45-pitch bullpen session Saturday and reported felling well. “It’s another step in the right direction,” Baker told MLB.com’s Cubs beat writer Carrie Muskat after his session. “Everything felt good. As long as everything keeps going well, it’s hard to not be pleased with that.”

Baker is not yet throwing at full speed, which is understandable for a pitcher rehabilitating from Tommy John surgery less than a year ago. He told Muskat that he knows his limits and is trying not to push himself too hard. He will most likely throw a few more bullpen and live batting practice sessions before competing at full speed in Spring Training games.

Baker had his surgery last April. He signed a one-year, $5.5 million contract during the offseason after missing all of 2012. The Cubs are hoping for the same type of performance from Baker that he gave the Minnesota Twins from 2005 to 2011. Baker is 63-48 with a 4.15 ERA in his career with his best ERA of 3.14 in 2011. When ready, Baker will be a strong candidate for the back end of the Cubs’ starting rotation.

Sources:

Baseball Reference, Scott Baker Player Page, baseball-reference.com.

Carrie Muskat, Baker Progresses, but Longs for Hook, Sinker, cubs.mlb.com, February 23, 2013.

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