BALTIMORE — Johan Santana threw a pain- and problem-free bullpen session here yesterday afternoon at Camden Yards that pitching coach Dan Warthen labeled as “vintage Johan.”
Santana, of course, is under the microscope after posting a 6.50 ERA in his past six starts and giving up a career-high nine runs in his previous outing Sunday at Yankee Stadium.
Warthen said Santana changed his grip during the 47-pitch outing and, more important, lowered his arm angle after letting it get a little out of whack.
“I thought he was excellent — vintage Johan,” Warthen said. “I think we have most everything figured out. He got his deception back and his velocity back, and I’m expecting very good things [in Santana’s next start].”
Santana takes the mound again Saturday at Citi Field against the defending AL champion Rays.
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Mike Pelfrey got some unsolicited and unexpected — but entirely welcome — pitching advice before last night’s 6-4 loss to the Orioles from Hall of Famer Jim Palmer.
The Mets’ big right-hander said Palmer, who is the Orioles’ TV analyst, approached him to critique Pelfrey’s 5 2/3-inning start here Tuesday. Pelfrey admitted he never has seen film of Palmer pitching but appreciated the tips and said he plans to use them.
“The guy’s very approachable, and I thought that was amazing for him to come and talk to me,” Pelfrey said. “You always try to get insight from people, and that guy knows what he’s talking about.”
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John Maine will throw a side session today in Port St. Lucie while Oliver Perez pitches three innings in an intrasquad game.
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The Mets said outfielder Angel Pagan (groin strain) could play in a minor-league rehab game in Port St. Lucie as soon as this weekend.