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Jameson Taillon makes first rehab start since cancer diagnosis

Jameson Taillon returned to the mound just three weeks after having surgery to for testicular cancer. (AP Photo)
Jameson Taillon returned to the mound just three weeks after having surgery to for testicular cancer. (AP Photo)

Three weeks after having surgery for testicular cancer, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Jameson Taillon returned to the mound. The 25-year-old was effective in his first outing since his recovery, giving up just one hit over three innings.

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Taillon got the start for the Double-A Altoona Curve, and didn’t miss a beat. He tossed three scoreless innings, striking out six. Taillon was removed from the game after throwing 60 pitches. Prior to the start, he maxed out at 35 pitches during a bullpen session.

Following the appearance, Taillon said he felt good.

It’s expected he’ll toss at least one more rehab start should things continue to progress.

Taillon underwent surgery May 8 to treat suspected testicular cancer. That diagnosis turned out to be accurate. Days later, hospital tests revealed Taillon had tested positive for cancer.

Much was expected from Taillon as he entered his first full season in the majors. The former top prospect successfully debuted with the major-league club in 2016, and was expected to be a big part of the rotation in 2017. Prior to the surgery, he was fulfilling that promise. Through six starts this season, Taillon has a 3.31 ERA over 35 1/3 innings.

While Sunday’s start was encouraging, the Pirates have not announced a plan for Taillon moving forward. After his initial diagnosis, the team said they would update his status “as appropriate.”

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Chris Cwik is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at christophercwik@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Chris_Cwik