Dan Haren throws in bullpen and is on track for Saturday’s start

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

Newly acquired right-hander Dan Haren, who was knocked out of his Angels’ debut by a fifth-inning line drive off the bat of Boston’s Kevin Youkilis on Monday night, threw his regular between-starts bullpen workout of 30-35 pitches Wednesday and declared himself fit for Saturday night’s scheduled start against Texas.

Haren, acquired from Arizona for pitcher Joe Saunders and three minor league pitchers, suffered a bruise on his right forearm, but X-rays were negative for any serious problems. He said he experienced a bit of tightness at the beginning of Wednesday’s workout, but by the end of the session felt no restrictions.

‘Barring any setback, I should be ready to go Saturday,’ Haren said. ‘I was a little cautious at first, but then I was able to let it go. I threw all my pitches, and I only threw 62 pitches in the game [Monday night], so I feel fresh.’

Scott Kazmir, on the disabled list because of shoulder fatigue, also threw a bullpen session Wednesday, the first time the left-hander has thrown off a mound since being sidelined. Kazmir said the 35-pitch session went ‘fine.’

-- Mike DiGiovanna