Twins optimistic on injury front with Nolasco, May

SEATTLE -- Ricky Nolasco could be back in the Twins' rotation soon.

The right-hander, who has been on the 15-day disabled list with elbow inflammation, made a rehab start for Class A Cedar Rapids on Sunday, and reports were positive. Nolasco went five innings and threw 67 pitches. He gave up one unearned run on three hits and struck out five without walking a batter.

Twins manager Paul Molitor said he would confer with general manager Terry Ryan soon about the next step for Nolasco, who would be due to pitch on Friday, but that he was encouraged by the reports.

"Ricky threw the ball well," Molitor said. "Velocity was 91-93, settled in around 92 and had no physical restraint, so [a decision is] going to be coming around here pretty soon."

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Molitor also seemed optimistic about Trevor May, who exited Saturday's game against the Mariners after being struck by a line drive in the right elbow in the fourth inning. May was deemed day to day with a contusion. Molitor said May didn't throw on Sunday, but he probably would play catch on Monday.

"He feels better than he expected to feel," Molitor said. "We're not quite where we have to make a decision yet, which is a good thing."