In this update from Alyson Footer, we get a chance to see a time line on when the 8th/9th inning guys may return:
The two pitchers are working to keep their arms in shape without full use of their legs. In fact, they've been doing most of their throwing from their knees. Only recently have they been cleared to actually play catch while standing up.
Okay, well, that's not a good sign. How about a date?
Valverde:
Valverde, who has been on the disabled list since April 27 with a strained right calf that eventually needed to be drained of fluid, isn't expected back for at least three weeks. That return date may be a little liberal, however.
Brocail:
Brocail candidly said sometime around the All-Star break would be a realistic target.
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
