Big Unit Update
Randy Johnson news from the Journal News -
“It felt pretty good,” Johnson said.
A tougher test will come today when Johnson throws 40 pitches off the bullpen mound. But, so far, every indication is that Johnson will be able to start the third game of the American League Division Series on Friday.
“It doesn’t surprise me that he will do everything he can to get out there Friday,” Torre said. “I never had any doubt about his determination.”
Johnson learned about his disc problem on Thursday and had the injection on Friday. He had previously decided to skip his final start of the regular season because of back spasms.
“(Today) will be the barometer of how everything is. If I get through that, it’ll be one hurdle that we’re over,” he said.
“I can win 17 games anywhere, but my better chances of getting to the playoffs were coming to the Yankees. That’s why I’m here, so I’ll do whatever it takes,” he said.
“I’ve pitched through pain and discomfort before. I’m 43 years old; I’ve got an arthritic knee; I’ve gone through one back surgery and another one probably I may need. I’m not going to complain about my health. I’m here to pitch in the postseason and I’ll do whatever I can.”
Johnson said he first injured his back on Sept. 6 in Kansas City. He carried a no-hitter into the seventh inning that night and threw 81 pitches.
“The spasms are gone. But the spasms were there because the muscles were fatigued and protected themselves,” Johnson said. “We’ll throw tomorrow and see how I respond to that.”
If Johnson comes through today well, he would throw in the bullpen again on Wednesday, rest Thursday, then start on Friday. He left no doubt as to his intentions.
“I don’t want to put anybody in a compromising position,” Johnson said. “But pitching means everything to me.”
Unit is setting himself up for a compare here – from 2004 – either Curt Schilling or Kevin Brown. Stay tuned.
We’ll see Wednesday.
Ah, here’s to hoping we get the Tigers.