Cuddyer set to take next step to running

ARLINGTON -- Rockies injured outfielder-first baseman Michael Cuddyer, out since suffering a left hamstring strain on April 17, plans to make the next important step in his rehab by introducing running exercises when the club goes to Cincinnati this weekend.

Cuddyer had been exercising in the fitness pool at Coors Field, but Wednesday he did strengthening exercises on flat ground at Globe Life Stadium.

"You're obviously looking for positive steps, and a big one is being able to go out and run," Cuddyer said. "I'm not there yet, but I'm slowly approaching it."

Cuddyer (.317, 3 HR, 10 RBIs in 16 games) said he could take swings, but doesn't believe it's necessary and believes that could be at the risk of accidentally tweaking the hamstring injury.