Bucs get encouraging news on injury front

PITTSBURGH -- Good news all around Wednesday on key Pirates recovering from injuries. When a visit to Dr. James Andrews results in a positive development, you know it's a good day.

That was the latest twist in Wandy Rodriguez's protracted battle with a forearm issue. Not only did Dr. Andrews, who examined the left-hander on Tuesday, diagnose no need for surgery, but early indications were Rodriguez might even squeeze in a rehab outing before Minor League schedules run out the first week of September.

The 2013 participation of Rodriguez, who has been out since June 3, remains a longshot.

Not so for reliever Jason Grilli, who, in manager Clint Hurdle's words, worked "an encouraging" 25-pitch simulated game Wednesday afternoon in PNC Park. Grilli will rest for two days and, if he continues to feel well, is down for a Saturday rehab outing with Double-A Altoona.

Grilli's advantage is having to build up his arm for only one inning of work. The Altoona assignment would have him go one inning and throw no more than 20 pitches.

Outfielder Travis Snider has ramped up his own rehab with Indianapolis from his left big toe injury. He is 7-for-26 with four RBIs and four runs in seven games between Altoona and the Indians.

Hurdle spoke with Snider on Monday for a direct report on his progress.

"He's feeling better, getting in game shape. He's played nine innings multiple times," Hurdle said.