Angels' Pitcher Caden Dana: Back on Track After a Health Battle
In a heartwarming turn of events, Caden Dana, the right-handed pitcher for the Angels, finally stepped onto the pitcher's mound, feeling like he had conquered a mountain. This moment was significant as Dana had been battling mononucleosis, a persistent fever, and fatigue since arriving at spring training in February.
The short bullpen session on Tuesday, away from the public eye, marked Dana's first time throwing from a mound since his arrival in Arizona. Despite the absence of a batter and the mound's proximity to the team's facility, Dana felt a renewed sense of competition and eagerness to take on more challenges.
When asked about his readiness, Dana expressed confidence, saying, "I feel on track. I don't want to rush, but I trust the Angels' timeline."
Dana's appearance was part of a showcase for the Angels' next generation of pitchers. Right-hander Tyler Bremner, the team's second overall draft pick last year, also took the mound, showcasing his new slider. Meanwhile, George Klassen started in the Cactus League game against the Seattle Mariners.
While Dana is the only one of the trio with major-league experience, his 10 appearances over the past two seasons indicate room for improvement. However, at just 22 years old, he is expected to get more opportunities this season.
And here's where it gets controversial... Dana's return might not be immediate, but he's not putting a timeline on his readiness. "I felt right where I left off," he said, adding that his health improvements allowed him to maintain his throwing routine and keep his arm loose.
The key to Dana's recovery was maintaining his weight, which he credits to his living situation with teammates Ben Joyce and Logan O'Hoppe, who kept the grill going daily. "If I had lost a lot of weight, this recovery would have been tougher," Dana explained.
Tyler Bremner's Low-Key Camp
Tyler Bremner, the first-round draft pick who didn't pitch last season, has been keeping a low profile in camp as he works on his slider under pitching coach Mike Maddux's guidance. On Tuesday, Bremner faced Angels hitters Nolan Schanuel and Denzer Guzman, touching 98 mph with his fastball and mixing in a changeup and sliders.
"I wanted to fill the zone more, but my stuff felt good. I felt like I was getting outs," Bremner said. He's unsure about his next game action, with the Angels leaving Arizona on March 21 and the Freeway Series against the Dodgers ending on March 24.
And this is the part most people miss... Bremner faced the hitters in a constant rotation without fielders or an umpire, but Maddux was right behind the mound, offering pitch suggestions based on swings. "I need to learn to read swings and know what pitches work against certain guys," Bremner explained.
So, what do you think? Are you excited to see these young pitchers in action? Do you think Dana's experience will give him an edge, or will the others surprise us? Let's discuss in the comments!
