Johnny Cueto injury: Reds RHP resumes throwing

Cincinnati Reds right-handed starting pitcher Johnny Cueto took the first step in returning to the mound yesterday, as he resumed throwing, according to John Fay of The Cincinnati Enquirer.

Cueto threw for seven minutes on flat ground yesterday, gradually increasing his throwing distance up to 75 feet. Following the session, the right-hander told reporters that his strain feels better, adding that he didn't experience any pain while throwing.

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He hit the disabled list on April 15 due to a strained right lat muscle, and is eligible to be activated on April 29. Fay doesn't expect this to happen, but Cueto's return should be sooner than later now that he's resumed throwing.

From this point forward, the plan is to have Cueto pitch daily, assuming there's not a setback. Manager Dusty Baker reiterated that Cueto is making progress, though the Reds will continue to move along slowly, as he said "you don't heal overnight."

Baker also said that the Reds are trying to avoid any "lingering effects" of the injury, so they could be extra cautious with Cueto since it's so early in the season. He was effective prior to hitting the DL, and Cincinnati hopes he'll be able to pick up where he left off upon return.

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