SEATTLE -- Rockies Opening Day starter Jon Gray is inching closer to returning after sustaining a navicular stress fracture in his left foot against the Giants on April 12.
Colorado manager Bud Black said that Gray will ramp up the intensity of his rehab process when the team returns to Denver on Tuesday for a two-game series with the Indians. A simulated game or live batting practice is the next logical step.
Gray's throwing arm is less of a concern in the short-term than it is for Gray to get his legs back under him.
"[Gray] ran on the field for the first time yesterday, which is great," Black said. "He's just got to get his legs in shape. His calf was weak, his calf is getting stronger. He's lost some ankle strength. ... He's got to build all that stuff up, and it takes time."
Gray removed his walking boot from his left foot and threw his first bullpen session on Sunday. He made three starts this season, posting a 4.38 ERA, before heading to the 10-day disabled list.
Worth noting
• Rockies backup catcher Ryan Hanigan is progressing well after his left ankle collided with Mariners outfielder Ben Gamel's helmet during a play at the plate on Tuesday in Colorado.

"He's fine to play," Black said. "There was significant improvement yesterday from the time we got here to the time on the bus. A lot of treatment, great work in the training room."
• On the 10-day DL with a fractured right forearm, catcher Tom Murphy caught a bullpen session on Thursday and is scheduled to catch "six or seven innings" next, according to Black.