Gomez takes swings, still targets return for finale

MILWAUKEE -- Carlos Gomez took dry swings in the batting cage Wednesday and said he was available off the bench if needed against the Cubs at Miller Park.

Gomez, who sprained his left shoulder while making a catch Sunday against the Braves, took 30 to 40 swings, and Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said the center fielder might take batting practice Thursday.

"A little sore," Gomez said after swinging a bat for the first time since his injury. "But it's normal, like always. I'm going to be available for today, too. If it's necessary, they're going to use me. If it's not, they're going to leave me off."

Roenicke said he feels fortunate that Gomez is on the verge of returning after seeing his awkward collision with the center-field wall on Sunday.

"I didn't have very good thoughts as I was running out to center [to check on Gomez]," Roenicke said. "Any time you're worried about a guy -- losing him for a long time -- and he's out three, four days, you're pretty fortunate."

Gomez sounded optimistic that he would be able to return Thursday in the series finale against the Cubs, but Roenicke said they have to wait and see how he feels tomorrow.