Rehab Roundup: Manoah Labors While Joyce, Yates Show Promise in Quakes Appearance

Mar 17, 2026; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Angels pitcher Alek Manoah against the Chicago Cubs during a spring training game at Sloan Park.

(© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images)

RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. -- Alek Manoah’s rehab outing with Rancho Cucamonga offered a clearer picture of where he stands, and it remains a work in progress. The right-hander lasted 4 1/3 innings against the Inland Empire 66ers, surrendering seven hits and six runs (five earned) while walking two and striking out just two batters. A three-run homer in the third inning did most of the damage, but the overall lack of swing-and-miss stood out more than any single moment.

Manoah’s fastball velocity hovered in the 90–91 mph range, a noticeable dip from his peak form. He generated mostly contact outs, struggling to put hitters away across his 27 batters faced. While the low strikeout total reflects some rust, it also highlights the current state of his secondary pitches, which have yet to fully regain their sharpness.

The outing wasn’t without purpose. Manoah threw 87 pitches, 49 for strikes, nearing the anticipated 90-pitch threshold as he continues building stamina. Though he fell short of completing five innings, the ability to handle that workload marks a step forward physically, even if the results lag behind.

Yates Efficient in Latest Tune-Up

Kirby Yates continued his steady progression with a sharp one-inning appearance in his fourth rehab outing. The veteran right-hander allowed no damage while striking out two of the four batters he faced, needing just 15 pitches - 11 for strikes - to navigate the frame.