More Good News on Andrew Cashner

May 2, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Padres starting pitcher Andrew Cashner. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

There is continued good news about Andrew Cashner’s recovery from the elbow problem that landed him on the DL on May 16. Tuesday, the Padres’ ace threw a 30-pitch session in Arizona, where the team is currently playing the Diamondbacks. Cashner threw a combination of fastballs and change-ups.

Cashner reported that he had no pain during the session.

Padres manager Bud Black and pitching coach Darren Balsley observed the session.

"[Cashner] threw for 10 minutes and was pleased, Darren was pleased,” Black said. “It looked effortless. It was fairly good intensity.”h/t to Corey Black of padres.mlb.com"

With this throwing session going well, the next step in the recovery plan is to have Cashner throw again on Friday in Chicago, where the Padres will be playing the White Sox. According to Black, it will be a higher-intensity workout, with more, varied pitches. They also plan to allow Cashner to throw harder.

Cashner is a warrior, and does not enjoy being on the DL. “Not playing is not fun. I was pretty anxious to get here and throw today.”

It is expected that Cashner’s recovery will include a simulated game or a minor-league game or two before he returns to the active roster. While he is eligible to come off the DL in early June, the current schedule makes a mid-June return more likely.

Cashner is one of two Padres starters on the DL, with lefty Robbie Erlin joining Cashner on the shelf. Long-relievers Tim Stauffer and Donn Roach have been filling in for the starters, and will pitch tonight and Friday.