Padres Get Encouraging Update on Cole Hamels’ Comeback

It's been over two years since Cole Hamels last pitched in an MLB game, but baseball fans may not have to wait much longer to see him on the mound again.

Hamels, who is currently on a minor-league deal with the San Diego Padres, has looked good in Spring Training so far and could be ready to pitch for them by midseason, according to beat writer Kevin Acee.

Cole Hamels Padres

That would be an incredible turn of events for the 39-year-old southpaw, who hasn't thrown a big-league pitch since 2020. Repeated injuries have prevented him from taking the mound since then, resulting in an unsuccessful comeback attempt with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2021.

After taking 2022 off, the former All-Star and World Series champion appears to have found new life in his left arm. While he still has a ways to go before he'd potentially be ready to pitch in a big-league game, the Padres are encouraged by his early throwing sessions in Spring Training so far.

If Hamels does come back, he could provide pitching depth as either a starter or a reliever for his new team. Quality pitching isn't easy to find, especially from the left side. He also brings championship experience and veteran leadership to the table, which could prove invaluable for a San Diego squad that has the sixth-best odds of winning the 2023 World Series on FanDuel Sportsbook.

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