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Wandy feels good after 35-pitch simulated game

PITTSBURGH -- Wandy Rodriguez's long comeback journey continued Friday at PNC Park, and the left-hander the Pirates would love to get back for the postseason finally has a road map.

Rodriguez went through a 35-pitch simulated game early Friday afternoon and, as relayed by manager Clint Hurdle, "everyone who witnessed it was pleased with it."

As was the main attraction. Rodriguez went through his repertoire -- changeups, two- and four-seam fastballs -- and "felt and looked good," according to the manager.

The itinerary for Rodriguez's return, assuming he continues to feel well after each step: A bullpen session on Monday in San Diego, another simulated game on Friday in San Francisco, then possibly squeezing in a rehab game or two before the shrinking Minor League schedules expire.

Rodriguez went on the DL with tightness in the left forearm on June 11, and the plug was pulled on his first rehab assignment on July 1 when the discomfort returned. The veteran southpaw has a 6-4 record and 3.59 ERA. He led the staff in wins at the time of his injury.

Tom Singer is a reporter for MLB.com and writes an MLBlog Change for a Nickel. He can also be found on Twitter @Tom_Singer.
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