Wandy to throw bullpen session Saturday

DENVER -- Starting pitcher Wandy Rodriguez is set to throw 25 pitches in a bullpen session Saturday, a critical step forward in his extensive rehab schedule.

Rodriguez will work on his fastball and changeup in Saturday's session as he continues to recover from a left forearm injury, Pirates manager Clint Hurdle said Friday.

Thursday, Hurdle said Rodriguez would not be ready to pitch Sept. 1, when teams can expand their rosters to 40 players. However, the bullpen session marks the first time the left-hander will throw off a mound since sustaining the injury June 5.

Rodriguez made 12 starts before the injury, going 6-4 with a 3.59 ERA. Rookie Gerrit Cole has filled in since, holding his own in the Major Leagues with a 3.95 ERA through the first 11 big league starts of his career.