PITTSBURGH — Jason Grilli is making progress in his recovery from a strained left oblique muscle that landed him on the disabled list April 21. However, there is still no timetable for when the Pittsburgh Pirates’ closer might return.
Grilli played catch Monday night prior to the Pirates’ 11-10, 13-inning loss to the visiting San Francisco Giants. It was the third time he did so since going on the DL and second time in three days.
“Felt great,” Grilli said. “I’m way ahead of where I want to be, right where I need to be.”
Grilli hopes to throw off a mound for the first time Wednesday.
The 37-year-old veteran got off to a rough start this season, converting just four of his seven save opportunities while going 0-1 with a 4.50 ERA in eight games. Last year, he was 33-for-35 in saves in his first season as a closer.
Over his first 10 major league seasons — with six teams — Grilli recorded a total of five saves.