Veteran righty Morrow set to begin throwing Friday

TORONTO -- Right-hander Brandon Morrow is scheduled to throw on Friday for the first time since suffering a right index finger injury in early May.

Morrow is expected to be out until at least the All-Star break because of a torn tendon sheath. His hand was immobilized for several weeks, but he has now reached the point where he can have a light catch.

Surgery has yet to be completely ruled out, but the belief is that Morrow will be able to avoid the procedure and instead work his way back through an extensive rehab program.

Morrow had a 1-2 record with a 5.93 ERA in 27 1/3 innings before he went down with the injury. A return in late July would be crucial for the organization, because it would give the club a glance at what he can provide before the July 31 non-waiver Trade Deadline.