Cincinnati Reds pitcher Wade Miley was assigned to a rehab stint with High-A Dayton this week and made his first professional start since undergoing elbow surgery last year. Unfortunately, the results were disappointing.
Miley was removed midway through the third inning after throwing fewer than 50 pitches. Despite 33 of his 49 pitches being strikes, he allowed six runs on nine hits and struck out only two batters. One of those hits was a home run by West Michigan’s Brett Callahan in the third inning. The Dayton Dragons lost the game 10-0.
While this was Miley’s first appearance since April of last year, Reds fans should not be discouraged by his performance. The main focus for Miley, the team, and coaching staff should be how his body recovers from his first in-game action in over a year. Talk of a quick return to the active roster should be set aside for now.
Miley, known for his relentless work ethic, is undoubtedly frustrated by the slow pace of his rehab. During spring training, he expressed hope for an early return, targeting April 15, but that date has passed. The Reds now expect him to be ready sometime next month. If his body responds well to this outing, Miley could make his next rehab start for the Dragons on Sunday, with a possible move to Triple-A Louisville afterward.
As Miley’s rehab continues, the Reds will eventually face a decision. The 38-year-old veteran signed to pitch in the majors, but the Reds’ rotation currently has no openings. Over the coming weeks, things could change, and Miley’s pitch count—not his performance—will be the key focus in determining when he’ll return to the big leagues, likely by mid-May.
