Motte says simulated game 'went well'

ST. LOUIS -- Reliever Jason Motte threw 19 pitches in a simulated game on Tuesday, representing the latest step forward in his rehab process.

Motte, via text, said he recorded four or five outs and added that he "felt good. Good effort. Went well." Now 11 months removed from Tommy John surgery, Motte has been throwing simulated games about every third day for three weeks now. He said he is scheduled to pitch again on Friday, after making a quick trip to St. Louis to participate in a charity event on Thursday.

The Cardinals have not announced when Motte will transition from pitching in simulated or extended spring training games to facing hitters at higher Minor League levels on a rehab assignment. Motte is on track to return to the Cardinals' bullpen in May.

"We're just happy that every time he goes out there," manager Mike Matheny said, "the next day he says he feels great."