Hughes' Velocity Returns in SI Start

From Christopher O'Brien:

Phil Hughes went 4-1/3 innings, giving up one run on three hits with seven strikeouts, in Sunday night's rehab appearance for the Staten Island Yankees. But the most important number of the night was 93.

Struggling all year with his velocity, Hughes fired fastballs that consistently clocked in at 93 mph.

That was encouraging to the Yankee righthander, who has been out since April 15 due to a dead arm and inflammation in his pitching shoulder.

"Sometimes it's tough when you haven't thrown in a while. I was worried my command might be off a bit," said Hughes, excited to see his fastball popping. "But I was pleased that I was throwing strikes and getting ahead in the count."

...

Hughes said he plans to start for Double-A Trenton in five days and is eager to prove to the Yankees, as well as himself, that he's capable of getting back to the Bronx soon.