Cahill likely to rejoin rotation this weekend

PHOENIX -- D-backs right-hander Trevor Cahill appears set to rejoin the rotation in Pittsburgh this weekend following a third rehab start for Triple-A Reno on Sunday. The 25-year-old worked seven innings, allowing two runs on five hits and three walks while striking out four. He threw 98 pitches and 55 strikes.

"We'll probably move him in there," manager Kirk Gibson said. "Now we know he's strong, built up and going deeper. He's ready."

Cahill struggled a bit with fatigue and his arm slot in his previous two outing for Reno, tossing a combined 9 2/3 innings and surrendering 10 runs (nine earned).

"It took longer than I thought, but this time I felt good," Cahill said. "Once I was able to get comfortable, I felt like I was fine. I felt stronger as the game went on."

On the disabled list since July 1 with a right hip contusion and later some shoulder soreness, Cahill will step into the rotation for Zeke Spruill, who was optioned Monday after his start Sunday. With the D-backs off Thursday, the right-hander would make his return Saturday against the Pirates if Arizona keeps its starters in turn.