Weiss says Kahnle looks good in BP session

PHOENIX -- Reliever Tommy Kahnle took a step toward returning to the Rockies' bullpen, throwing a live batting-practice session on Saturday before the game against the D-backs.

Kahnle has been on the 15-day disabled list with right shoulder inflammation since Aug. 16.

"He looked good," manager Walt Weiss said. "Ball's jumping out of his hand like it usually does."

Kahnle has become a key part of the Rockies' bullpen in his first Major League season, pitching in 47 games with a 3.43 ERA.

However, Weiss said Kahnle hasn't returned to his healthy form, and he said his control also still needs to return.

"Command is the thing that maybe takes a little bit more time to get back," Weiss said. "But he looked good to me."

Weiss didn't say when the Rockies plan to activate Kahnle, as he said the right-hander would get "at least a day or two."

Kahnle has the second-lowest ERA among Rockies relievers entering Saturday, trailing only LaTroy Hawkins' 2.74 mark, and he is also second among members of the bullpen with 56 strikeouts.