Kris Benson made his second rehabilitation start last night for the Clearwater Threshers and showed much improvement from his previous outing.  In Benson’s first start he only lasted two innings, giving up three hits (all home runs), and five earned runs.

Last night Benson, against the Vero Beach Dodgers, Benson went four and two-thirds innings, allowing seven hits and one earned run.  He struck out three and walked one.  His lone run came on an RBI single with two outs in the fifth inning.

More importantly, Benson was pain free and had command of all his pitches.  His fastball topped out at 92, but was in the high-80′s for most of the game.  As he throws more he should begin to regain velocity, and his pitches should have more movement. 

Barring any new setbacks, Benson is slated to pitch again for the Threshers on Sunday. 

I found Benson to be an intreguing signing since the Phillies picked him up this winter.  While  hoped he could become a 5th starter by May, given his numerous setbacks, he’s sort of become an afterthought.  In saying that, it’s nice to see he’s progressing well.  Look for the Phillies to start paying close attention after he gets a couple more starts under his belt.