SAN FRANCISCO — Randy Johnson was encouraged with his performance in a simulated game Monday and hopes to return to pitch out of the bullpen for the Giants during the stretch run.
The 45-year-old left-hander threw 53 pitches, including warm-ups, before the Giants played the Rockies. He was on the mound at San Francisco’s AT&T Park for the first time since injuring his left shoulder more than two months ago.
“It’s another step toward, hopefully, being activated,” the five-time Cy Young Award winner said. “I have been throwing for 2 1/2 weeks now, and the only difference today was there were hitters. Overall I felt pretty good, and I threw well. We’ll see how I feel (today) and make a game plan.”
Twins aching
MINNEAPOLIS — Twins first baseman Justin Morneau’s season is over because of a stress fracture in his lower back — an injury that will require rest for the next three months but not surgery. Despite a severe second-half slump, the 2006 AL MVP still has 30 homers and 100 RBIs.
The Twins also believe third baseman Joe Crede is through for the year because of a back injury.
Footnotes.
The Cardinals skipped John Smoltz’s turn in the rotation after he complained of shoulder tendinitis Saturday. The 42-year-old right-hander was scheduled for a bullpen session today.
• The Reds activated outfielder Jay Bruce (wrist) from the 15-day disabled list and recalled infielder-outfielder Juan Francisco from Triple-A Louisville.
• The Dodgers activated right-handed reliever Guillermo Mota (ingrown toenail) from the disabled list.
• Tigers reliever Fernando Rodney had his three-game suspension reduced to two games.
The Associated Press
