Hechavarria on schedule to return from DL on time

MIAMI -- As several Marlins players were working on bunting Friday afternoon, Adeiny Hechavarria was playing catch in left field.

The 24-year-old shortstop, on the disabled list with a bruised right elbow, continues to make steady strides to returning.

Barring any setback, the Marlins are hopeful that Hechavarria will be ready for reinstatement the first day he is eligible, which is May 2 at Philadelphia.

The Marlins open a four-game series against the Phillies that day, and Hechavarria should be available.

"Things are progressing for him," manager Mike Redmond said. "He did some more throwing today. He's on track to be available on May 2, which is obviously a good sign. It's relatively a short-term thing for him."

Chris Valaika started at shortstop on Friday, and Nick Green has also played the position in the past week.

"They've done a nice job," Redmond said. "This is a good opportunity for them to get some at-bats."

Hechavarria, however, is one of the core young players on a revamped Miami roster.

"He's a big part of our team and our defense," Redmond said. "It will be nice to get Hech back."