What It Means:

Counsell believes Jeffress will be cleared for Opening Day, although he acknowledged it will likely be a close call. Jeffress lasted just three pitches in his spring debut Wednesday after being held out due to discomfort in his throwing shoulder. The 31-year-old right-hander spun a stellar 1.29 ERA over 76 2/3 innings last season while converting 15 saves in 20 opportunities.

numberFire's models currently expect Jeffress to record a 3.00 ERA and 1.19 WHIP with 75 strikeouts and 28 walks across 70 inning in 2019.