Cashner and Wells update, team update

Both Andrew Cashner and Randy Wells have begun bullpen sessions since being injured the first two weeks of the season.  The sessions were monitored by Cubs Pitching Coach Mark Riggins and trainer Mark O’Neil.  This was the first time either right-hander has thrown off the mound since April 8, when both were put on the disabled list. Cashner is recovering from a right rotator-cuff strain while Wells is recouping from a right forearm strain.  To refresh everyone a forearm strain is an injury to the muscles or tendons connected to the bones in the lower arm.  As for a rotator-cuff strain is the network of four muscles and several tendons that form a covering around the top of the upper arm bone (humerus). These muscles form a cover around the head of the humerus. The rotator cuff holds the humerus in place in the shoulder joint and enables the arm to rotate.

If things go as planned both will be assigned to the minor leagues to work their way back to the major league.  "They're both doing well," Cubs General Manager Jim Hendry said. "They're both healthy. If they get a couple of good bullpen sessions and a simulated game, then it's time to go pitch."

The recent injuries that occurred to Cashner and Wells the Cubs have struggled with the fourth and fifth starters, Casey Coleman and James Russell.

The suspension and the rehab that Carlos Zambrano had in the 2010 season has helped him as a player.  His record since his return is 11-1.  Zambrano leads the team with three wins this year.  The second best pitcher this year is newly acquired pitcher from Tampa Bay, Matt Garza.  As for the Cubs Pitchers, Ryan Dempster has struggled since he was named the number one starter.  Dempster’s record this year is 1-3 with a 9.58 ERA (Earned Run Average).

Now that the month of April is over so far the Cubs MVP would have to be shortstop Starlin Castro.  Castro is currently batting .336 and has 12 RBI (Runs Batted In).  Starlin has hit only one homerun this year also.  Alfonso Soriano has also had a successful spring in hitting ten homeruns and 20 RBI (Runs Batted In). 

Each of the past few years the Cubs have started slow, I’m still hopeful that they can pick it up and have a successful year in making the playoffs.  GO CUBS Go