Rays could get key pitcher back ahead of schedule?

Oct 20, 2020; Arlington, Texas, USA; Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow (20) delivers a pitch against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 1st inning of game one of the 2020 World Series at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

The Tampa Bay Rays could be in line for a significant boost ahead of the postseason with the health of a key pitcher.

Rays pitching coach Kyle Snyder revealed that right-hander Tyler Glasnow is “fully healthy” roughly a year after undergoing Tommy John surgery, and has been throwing 99 MPH in his rehab. Snyder added that the chances of Glasnow returning in 2022 were “not zero.”

#Rays Snyder on Glasnow, who throws bullpen session today in Detroit as part of Tommy John rehab: “Fully healthy … has been throwing up to 98-99 mph … it’s “pretty remarkable” to see where he is roughly a year after surgery … chances of pitching this year: “Not 0”

— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) August 6, 2022

Glasnow opted for surgery about a year ago, and the initial prognosis was that he could be out until 2023. That may still be the case, but it is hugely encouraging that he might pitch this season at all. If the Rays do decide to use him, they may be cautious with the 28-year-old and use him out of the bullpen or in limited duty.

Glasnow appeared to be in the midst of a breakout season in 2021 before he got hurt. Through 14 starts, he was 5-2 with a 2.66 ERA and 123 strikeouts in 88 innings.