Reds expect Cingrani back for Phillies series

CINCINNATI -- Reds starting pitcher Tony Cingrani, who has been on the disabled list since May 1 because of mild left shoulder tendinitis, threw a light bullpen session on Friday.

"It went well," Reds manager Bryan Price said. "Our plan is to have him ready for the Philadelphia series [next weekend]. When that time comes, we want him to feel like it's his Opening Day again. We want his arm to feel that good. We don't want him to get 80 percent recovery. We want 100 percent recovery, and we don't want to have to go back down the same road."

The Reds, who have used a four-man rotation because of multiple recent off-days, do not need Cingrani's spot until May 17 against the Phillies.

"If he's not ready … then we'll find somebody else to make that start and activate him when he's 100 percent ready," Price said.

Cingrani, 24, started on April 30 vs. the Cubs and exited after four innings when he displayed decreased velocity on his fastball. He rested for a few days before he resumed throwing on the side.

"He's not having any soreness. He's strong," Price said. "I fully anticipate he'll be ready to make that start."