Angels pitcher Matt Shoemaker takes ‘big step’ in recovery

Matt Shoemaker took what he called a “big step” in his recovery from a left rib-cage strain on Saturday, when he extended his long-toss program to 200-250 feet, the final step before the Angels right-hander throws off a mound.

“The way it’s going, I’m very optimistic about pitching in the playoffs,” Shoemaker said. “The tightness or soreness is still there, but it’s just about gone. It’s there, but I barely feel it. Each day, it’s gotten better.”

Barring setback, Shoemaker expects to throw off a mound either Sunday or Monday. Jered Weaver will start Game 1 of the American League division series on Thursday, and C.J. Wilson is lined up to start Game 2, so Shoemaker probably wouldn’t start until Game 3 on Sunday, Oct. 5.

If Shoemaker can regain the form that helped him go 16-4 with a 3.04 earned run average, 124 strikeouts and 24 walks in 136 innings this season, it would be a huge boost to a rotation that has been plagued by injury and inconsistency and to the team’s World Series hopes.

Asked whether the tightness and pain he is feeling now is something he can pitch through, Shoemaker, who celebrated his 28th birthday Saturday, said, “Oh, sure.”