Yankees closer Andrew Miller could be back soon

Andrew-Miller;-New-York-Yankees;-MLB

Andrew Miller. (Charlie Riedel/AP)

NEW YORK — Injured closer Andrew Miller threw 30 pitches in a bullpen session and could soon return to the New York Yankees.

Miller has not pitched in a game since June 9 because of a strained left forearm. Pitching coach Larry Rothschild simulated a batter during Saturday’s mound session, and Miller hopes he will not need another bullpen session before going on a minor league injury rehabilitation assignment.

"That’s why I need to go to a rehab game, because Larry’s the only batter I’ve faced so far," Miller said jokingly.

Yankees manager Joe Girardi said the team will wait to see how Miller feels Sunday before deciding on the next step. Because he is a reliever, Miller may not need many rehab outings.

Miller is perfect in 17 save chances in his first season with the Yankees. Dellin Betances, who has filled in a closer, is seven for eight.

"We have a couple closers down there," Girardi said. "I anticipate we just put them back down there and go from there."

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