Johan Santana may be encouraged by his progress, but the velocity he displayed on Tuesday reminded major league teams that the veteran left-hander still has a long way to go before he is ready to contribute.
The 34-year-old Santana is still rebuilding arm strength after his second shoulder capsule surgery.
Santana topped out at 81 mph on Tuesday. Most of his pitches were in the 77-78 mph range according to George King of the New York Post.
The Mets declined Santana’s option for this season paying him a $5.5 million buyout instead.
