Brent Honeywell aiming for May return

In an alternate timeline, Brent Honeywell forced his way onto the Rays’ Opening Day roster in 2018 and along with Blake Snell, dominated opposing lineups as the two traditional starting pitchers in the Rays’ rotation. Eventually joined by Nate Eovaldi and then Tyler Glasnow, they would combine to form one the most fearsome rotations in baseball.

However, that’s not what happened.

Instead, during a throwing session prior to the start of games last spring, Honeywell felt a pop and instantly knew that he would not be making the Rays’ roster.

He also knew that he would not be pitching at all during the 2018 season, as it would eventually be revealed that needed Tommy John surgery, putting his dreams of reaching the majors on hold.

Following his injury, Honeywell spoke with reporters and was clearly devastated by the development.

Now, over a year later, Honeywell has resumed throwing.

The 2017 Futures Game MVP began throwing off the mound again in December, and he has been throwing bullpen sessions on Tuesdays and Fridays. Manager Kevin Cash says the young prospect may progress to live bullpen sessions later in the spring with the ultimate goal of starting a rehab assignment in May.

Despite undergoing surgery, Honeywell is still ranked as the No. 2 prospect in the organization and No. 23 overall by Baseball America.