Gallardo pleased with first rehab start

FREDERICK, Md. — The Orioles, who sent down Mike Wright on Thursday as their cumulative starter ERA this past week has steadily climbed toward 5.00, are hoping right-hander Yovani Gallardo only needs two rehab starts.

Gallardo, who threw three innings for Class A Frederick on Thursday, won’t necessarily be rushed. But it would benefit Baltimore, which needs a starter for Monday, to insert the veteran as soon as possible back into the starting five.

“I’ve been feeling great ever since I started throwing,” said Gallardo, who thought Thursday was a step in the right direction. “When it comes to a rehab start, what is most important is just to throw strikes and move the ball around. Obviously, I think I threw 60 pitches today. Hopefully the next one 75 to 80 and I’m good after that [to return].

“Hopefully I feel fine [Friday] and there is nothing there. Just get ready for the next one. Just a matter of getting into a five-day routine. I think that is very important, just to get back in that rhythm and prepare yourself for each and every start.”

Gallardo, who gave up two runs in a 26- pitch first inning, allowed three runs on seven hits and two walks with four …

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