PORT ST. LUCIE — Johan Santana is still taking it slow, but says the notion he’s moved a step backward in his rehab is misguided.
The injured Mets ace refuted a report Sunday that said his throwing program might be shut down as he deals with soreness in his surgically repaired left shoulder. A prospect that would endanger his 2011 season.
“We’re on the right track and where we’re supposed to be,” Santana said. “Whoever says I’m not ready is lying.”
Santana, who played catch on Friday and Saturday, is scheduled for two days of rest before resuming his throwing on Tuesday and Wednesday. He said he’s taken a step forward since the start of spring training, but also has no prediction when he might begin throwing off the mound.
GM Sandy Alderson outlined a blueprint at the beginning of camp that pointed to Santana making minor-league rehab appearances in May and joining the Mets by early July.
“We are keeping track of everything and every time I throw, after I’m done working, I’m fine,” said Santana, who turned 32 on Sunday. “It’s just that it takes time. I still have to go slow, because whatever you want to do, regardless, your arm is going to tell you something else. That’s why this process is real slow.”