Keppinger could get in game this weekend

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Jeff Keppinger's throwing shoulder is improving enough that he could get on the field this weekend, manager Robin Ventura said following Monday's 9-7 victory over the Royals at Camelback Ranch.

"Every day it's a little bit better strength wise," said Ventura of Keppinger. "He might get in to DH kind of thing just to get some at-bats.

"Swinging the bat, he's fine. So more waiting on when he's ready to throw and he says it's getting better every day. Probably looking more toward the weekend."

Ventura said that Keppinger would probably play at second base to reduce the length of the throw when he first plays in the field. He added that it's arm strength hampering Keppinger, as he works his way back from a debridement of his right shoulder last Sept. 27.

"He didn't feel like he could get it across the infield," Ventura said. "It's getting better."