Cueto, Marshall hope to begin throwing programs soon

CINCINNATI -- Reds ace Johnny Cueto, on his third disabled list stint since June 29 because of a strained right lat muscle, still has yet to begin a throwing program. Lefty reliever Sean Marshall, who has been out since May 24 with a sprained left shoulder, has not thrown at all since having a setback in mid-July.

"Both are improving, but have some strength deficits," Reds head trainer Paul Lessard said. "They had strength testing on Wednesday, obviously they have different deficits with different injuries. We've kind of mapped out programs for them over the next 7-10 days. If their numbers are improved, we'll start throwing programs for both of them."

It's getting close to the point where both pitchers might run out of time before the end of the regular season. Both would need rehab assignments, but Minor League seasons end in early September.

"I know, but I have to follow what we have laid out for healthy bodies," Lessard said.