Dustin McGowan’s bid for a slot in the starting pitching rotation for the Toronto Blue Jays is looking good as the 27-year-old hurler threw a simulated game Tuesday during spring training.

The Long County native took on several minor league batters during two innings, throwing a total of 30 pitches. Though it is still too early to tell whether McGowan will be back in the Jays’ starting rotation of five pitchers, it’s not too early to say the right-hander has impressed Toronto’s staff.

In a report by Jordan Bastian of MLB.com, Toronto General Manager Alex Anthoupoulos said, "Right now, you can’t rule that out (McGowan in the starting rotation). He just looked, very, very good."

In the same report McGowan said, "Stuff-wise, it was good. I got a little tired in the second inning and tried to do too much, but that’s to be expected the first time. I was pumped about it."

McGowan, who hasn’t seen action since July 2008, has been in Florida the past two months with his family rehabbing and hoping to get himself in shape for opening day.

On Wednesday, McGowan’s wife Jilly spoke to the Coastal Courier about her husband’s spring training progress.

"Spring training is in full swing and we are enjoying every minute of it," she said. "It has been so great seeing Dustin back in uniform and back on the mound where he belongs. Dustin is feeling well and that’s a blessing in itself. Thanks to everyone for their ongoing support. He is hoping he will be giving everyone something to watch soon."