Soler making progress in his recovery

WASHINGTON -- The Cubs won't have Jorge Soler back until at least June 18. But the right fielder, who is on the 15-day disabled list, said the swelling around his left ankle is going down and he is getting better.

"I improved a lot since I got hurt," Soler said. "My ankle was swollen and it's going down. ... I feel really good, right now."

Soler, 23, sprained his left ankle lunging into first base in Miami on Monday, but stayed in the game. He felt the pain immediately, but said he didn't feel remaining in the game made it worse.

Before the injury, Soler batted .288 in May with two home runs and eight doubles.

"My opinion is ... 15 days," Soler said when asked when he'll be ready to play again. "I feel real good. I feel strong, too. I think I'll take my 15 days."