Putz likely coming back to D-backs Saturday

ATLANTA -- The D-backs expect to activate closer J.J. Putz from the disabled list Saturday.

Putz pitched in back-to-back games for Triple-A Reno on Monday and Tuesday. The right-hander was placed on the DL May 8 with a strained elbow.

Heath Bell has closed in Putz's absence and is 13-for-15 in save opportunities over that stretch.

D-backs manager Kirk Gibson was asked Friday if Putz would immediately reclaim his closer's job.

"I haven't said that," Gibson said. "I've got to talk to J.J. about it."

Gibson did say that he would probably stay away from using Putz on back-to-back days initially.