Sean Doolittle had a break-through 2014 season, one in which he moved into the Oakland Athletics’ closer role, saving 22 games and finishing with a 2.73 ERA. He also received his first all-star nod last season, working against three batters, allowing a hit and struck out two during his appearance.

The pride of Rapid City, South Dakota, Doolittle is one of three active players from South Dakota in the majors, joining Mark Ellis and Jason Kubel. He’s also one of just 37 players in major league history to have come from South Dakota.

The former Baseball Factory alumnus is currently dealing with a slight tear of his rotator cuff along with inflammation in his left shoulder according to the San Francisco Chronicle, an injury he felt after he resumed his throwing program to begin 2015. He couldn’t throw the ball 90 feet and after a few times of that, realized there was a problem.

Jane Lee from MLB.com mentions Doolittle received a platelet-rich plasma injection and the Athletics feel he won’t miss much time to begin the season. Doolittle told fans at A’s FanFest recently that he wouldn’t be ready for Opening Day but has resumed motion exercises and strength work.

If you’re a fan of the Oakland Athletics and Sean Doolittle, living in the Sioux Falls, SD area, the Under Armour Baseball Factory National Tryout Tour is coming to you this Saturday March 14th! Visit our tryout page to register and receive more information.