Castro expects to be in Opening Day lineup

By Carrie Muskat

March 28, 2014

PHOENIX -- Starlin Castro will be in the Cubs' Opening Day lineup on Monday. Just ask the Cubs' shortstop.

"I'm there," Castro said Friday. "Of course."

Castro has not played in a Cactus League game since March 2, when he strained his right hamstring. Since then, he's been rehabbing and playing in Minor League games, including nine innings on Thursday. He was tested, fielding a couple double plays, including one in which he had to come in quick and jump to make the throw because of the speedy runner.

"I caught the ball, jumped and threw the ball -- I feel good," Castro said.

Friday was a recovery day for Castro, who expected to play on Saturday in the Cubs' exhibition finale against the D-backs at Chase Field.

"[Saturday], I'll play," Castro said.

"He's really pushed himself very hard the whole week," Cubs manager Rick Renteria said.

Carrie Muskat is a reporter for MLB.com. She writes a blog, Muskat Ramblings, and you can follow her on Twitter @CarrieMuskat.