Jose Fernandez Injury: Updates on Marlins Star's Shoulder and Return

Miami Marlins ace Jose Fernandez, who has made just seven starts in 2015, had been dealing with a right biceps strain. On Aug. 11, MLBRosterMoves announced that Fernandez had been placed on the 15-day disabled list, with pitcher Justin Nicolino taking his place on the roster. On Saturday, the Marlins finally activated Fernandez to start against the Washington Nationals.

Fox Sports' Jon Morosi reported on Aug. 26 that the Marlins werere "hopeful" he would return by "mid-September."

"As long as I'm healthy I'm coming back. It doesn't matter our record," Fernandez said, per Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald on Aug. 11.

In preparation for Saturday's start, Joe Frisaro of MLB.com noted on Sept. 7 that Fernandez threw 75 pitches.

"I think it went great." Fernandez said afterward, via Steve Wilaj of MLB.com. "With 75 pitches, we got our work in. The command was there, I feel healthy and that's all I can ask for."

Fernandez also spoke about how he approached the outing, saying: "I treated that like a game. I should be pitching Saturday against Washington. I don't know how many pitches or what, but whatever it is, I'll be ready for it."

The Marlins will be careful with their 23-year-old superstar. Fernandez didn't debut this season until July 2 after rehabbing from Tommy John surgery performed in May 2014. He picked up where he left off with a 2.30 ERA and 53 strikeouts in 43 innings.

Given how young and dominant Fernandez has been throughout his career, as well as the fact that the team is in third place in the National League East, the Marlins have no incentive to push him through anything.

The Marlins' focus should be on getting Fernandez ready for 2016, but it's great to see he is able to return to the mound.