Making up for lost time, K-Rod on schedule

PHOENIX -- Brewers reliever Francisco Rodriguez is quickly making up for lost time. The setup man said he would throw live batting practice on Sunday before making his first appearance in a Cactus League game either Wednesday against the Angels or Thursday against the Padres.

"If we have to do another live BP, we will; if he's ready for a game, we'll do that also," Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said. "He comes along fast, and he doesn't feel he needs sometimes as much as some other guys."

Said Rodriguez: "As it's planned, everything is right on schedule."

Rodriguez arrived in camp about two weeks late, in part because of the recent unrest surrounding his home in Caracas. He did not acquire a work visa until a day or two before the Brewers started playing games, and he did not arrive at Maryvale Baseball Park until March 1.

But he is right on track to be ready for Milwaukee's March 31 season opener.

"It will take me two weeks at the most to be where I need to be," Rodriguez said. "I'm feeling good. I haven't had any setbacks. There's soreness as normal in Spring Training, but as far as health is concerned, it's pretty good."

The Brewers are counting on Rodriguez and fellow right-hander Brandon Kintzler to set up closer Jim Henderson this season. Rodriguez was the team's final offseason acquisition, signing a one-year deal on Feb. 7 that guaranteed $3.25 million, with an additional $550,000 available in incentives.