The Los Angeles Angels are finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel for one of their most promising arms. Right-hander Ben Joyce took a major step toward returning to the mound this week, making his first rehab appearance since undergoing shoulder surgery that sidelined him for the entire 2025 season.

Joyce, who hasn't pitched for the Angels since last April due to right shoulder inflammation, took the hill for the team's Single-A affiliate, the Rancho Cucamonga Quakers, on Wednesday. And if his velocity is any indication, he looks ready to pick up where he left off.

In just one inning of work, Joyce showed flashes of the electric stuff that made him a standout reliever. He allowed one hit and one walk while striking out one batter. But the most encouraging sign? His fastball was sitting comfortably between 97 and 100 mph, touching 101 mph at its peak—a reminder of why he's been a key piece in the Angels' bullpen plans.

For a team that has struggled mightily in relief this season—ranking second-worst in MLB with a 5.58 ERA and converting just four of 13 save opportunities—getting Joyce back could be a game-changer. Over his young career, the 25-year-old has posted a solid 3.12 ERA with four saves in 49 innings, and his return would provide a much-needed boost to a bullpen that has been searching for stability.

Angels manager Kurt Suzuki couldn't hide his excitement when he heard the news. “It’s awesome,” Suzuki told MLB.com. “When they told me that, I was pretty excited. Hearing what he’s been doing in Arizona, this guy’s ready to go out. I’m excited to see what he’s got in a rehab assignment game and then go from there.”

With Joyce now one step closer to rejoining the big league club, Angels fans have every reason to feel optimistic. If this rehab appearance is any preview, the flamethrower is ready to make an impact—and maybe help turn around a bullpen that's been in desperate need of a spark.