Marshall progressing, 'ready to get back'

CINCINNATI -- Reds right-handed pitcher Brett Marshall, currently on the 60-day disabled list because of a strained tendon on his middle finger, resumed throwing recently and his long toss program has him up to 90 feet. Marshall soon hopes to reach 120 feet before moving up on to working from a bullpen mound.

"I'm moving faster because it's not an arm issue. It's just a finger issue," Marshall said on Thursday. "My arm is in shape. I was able to keep up my exercises and do everything but throw. Everything feels good."

Marshall was a contender for the final rotation spot in Spring Training until the injury happened in his final outing. That spot wound up going to Alfredo Simon.

If all keeps progressing normally, Marshall could have his first bullpen session before the end of the month. Eventually, he could head out on a rehab assignment in the Minors.

"My arm feels pretty good for the most part," Marshall said. "It was hanging the first week because I hadn't thrown in six weeks. I was like, 'oh my God,' but it feels good now. The ball is coming out well and the finger feels good. I'm ready to get back to games."