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Angels aren’t planning on Ryan Madson’s return any time soon

Angels pitcher Ryan Madson hasn't thrown in a game since undergoing Tommy John surgery more than 14 months ago.
(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)
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The Angels are growing resigned to the likelihood that closer Ryan Madson may not pitch this season. Madson saved 32 games for the Phillies in 2011 but he hasn’t pitched in the majors since undergoing Tommy John surgery 14 months ago.

“As the calendar turns, it becomes more of a possibility,” Angel Manager Mike Scioscia said Sunday. “I know Ryan’s frustrated. It’s definitely disappointing for us.”

The Angels signed Madson, 32, to a one-year $3.5-million free-agent contract in November in an effort to shore up the back end of their bullpen. And it looked as if they’d get him back in late May after a pair of minor league rehab assignments.

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The first game went well with Madson pitching a perfect inning for Single A Inland Empire. But his second appearance was scratched a couple of days later when he experienced renewed soreness in his right arm and had to stop throwing completely.

“He was so close, virtually ready to go. One more little tuneup rehab start,” Scioscia said. “And he never got to that rehab start. But we’re going to keep moving forward and see where he is.”

Madson is throwing off flat ground again but there is no timetable for his return to the mound. Madson will not accompany the team on its upcoming six-game road trip to Detroit and Houston, reporting instead to the team’s training facility in Arizona for more specialized treatment.

Right-hander Robert Coello (shoulder inflammation) and left-hander Sean Burnett (elbow impingement) will also go to Arizona to continue their rehab although neither one of those pitchers is expected to pick up a ball.

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