Chacin building up toward rehab assignment

DENVER -- Rockies right-hander Jhoulys Chacin took a step forward by handling a short simulated game on Tuesday at the team's complex in Scottsdale, Ariz., as he continues his comeback from a shoulder strain that landed him on the disabled list to start the regular season.

Chacin will build up to 50 pitches before going on a rehab assignment, and ideally will be able to throw in the Majors when he can throw 90 pitches in a game, Rockies pitching coach Jim Wright said. An exact return date hasn't been set.

"He threw OK, fine, and he's still building up," Wright said.

Chacin said Wednesday that he will start an extended spring game on Friday, which will be his first game action. He was shut down before even throwing a bullpen session in Spring Training.

"Everything is fine now," he said. 'I'm feeling that the ball is coming out of my hand well."