Recovering Cruz takes cuts in batting cage

CINCINNATI -- Just because Tony Cruz was activated from the disabled list didn't mean he was healthy.

The Cardinals' backup catcher, who was placed on the 15-day DL on Aug. 15 with a stress fracture of his left forearm, was activated on Sept. 1, even though he wasn't ready to play.

Cruz hit in the indoor batting cage at Great American Ball Park on Tuesday and Wednesday before taking batting practice with the rest of the team on the field on Wednesday.

"It felt good," Cruz said.

Cruz arrived early at the ballpark on Wednesday to evaluate how he felt after Tuesday's activity, manager Mike Matheny said, and the catcher will most likely follow the same procedure on Thursday.

"He's not too far away," Matheny said. "Generally, he's making good steps forward. He's doing the right things."

Cruz had played in 41 games, hitting .212 with one home run and 11 RBIs, before he was injured.