Garza, Stewart continue recovery from injuries

Garza has apparently started throwing for the first time since late July. The Cubs pitcher, who was shut down after his July 21 start because of right elbow problems, gave an update on Twitter on Monday, saying: "1st day throwing the baseball! Felt great, #keepitslow! Looking forward to day#2 #GoCubsGo"

Garza, 29, went 5-7 with a 3.91 ERA in 18 starts for the Cubs last season. He was diagnosed with a stress reaction in his right elbow and placed on the disabled list on Aug. 7.

Stewart, 27, is taking his offseason workouts to another level. He's working this week with Hall of Famer Rod Carew, and on Monday gave an update on Twitter: "Wrist is good, no pain when I swing."

Carew compiled a .328 career average in 19 seasons with the Twins and Angels, and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1991.

Stewart batted .201 in 55 games with the Cubs before he was sidelined with soreness in his left wrist. He eventually underwent surgery in July.

The Cubs have agreed to terms with Stewart on a one-year, $2 million contract. The money is a slight drop from the $2,237,000 Stewart made last year, but he has a chance to make another $500,000 in incentives. The money also is non-guaranteed, so if he isn't healthy, the Cubs are not obligated. The deal has not been finalized.

Cubs Convention to be held Jan. 18-20
The 2013 Cubs Convention will be held Jan. 18-20 at the Sheraton Chicago, and players confirmed for the event include Garza, Darwin Barney, Starlin Castro, David DeJesus, Carlos Marmol, Anthony Rizzo, Jeff Samardzija and Alfonso Soriano.

New acquisitions Scott Baker, Scott Feldman and Dioner Navarro are also expected to attend.