MESA, Ariz. — Michael Cuddyer loves shouldering a heavy load. He could do without shouldering a 97 mph fastball. The all-star took Jeff Samardzija’s pitch off his left scapula Wednesday, but Cuddyer escaped serious injury.
“It’s only a bruise,” Cuddyer said. “I should be back in a couple of days. Where it hit me in the scapula, I couldn’t lift my arm. But I am able to do that now. It’s just really sore.”
Cuddyer was struck in the third inning. He stayed in after a brief visit from Rockies trainer Keith Dugger. However, Cuddyer exited after reaching second base on Carlos Gonzalez’s bases-loaded walk.
Morneau’s progress. Justin Morneau, out since Friday with a stiff neck, tracked pitches Wednesday and has regained full range of motion. The Rockies are moving conservatively with the first baseman, who is replacing Todd Helton.
Chacin to throw. Jhoulys Chacin will take a first step toward getting back on the mound when he plays catch Thursday, making 10 to 12 tosses. His shoulder has responded well to the strengthening exercises. He is unlikely to break camp with the team given the time he has missed.
Footnotes. Nick Masset returned to Rockies camp after the birth of his second daughter, Nicolette. Masset, who is attempting to make the bullpen, was overjoyed. “It was a miracle. I was so glad I was there for it. You can’t plan out a lot of things in this game,” Masset said. … Gonzalez is 4-for-8 this spring.
