April 30--Some of the optimism surrounding the Chicago Cubs' playoff chances in 2015 stems from the strong possibility they'll regain the services of reliever Justin Grimm and Neil Ramirez at some point.
But it doesn't appear it will be anytime soon, as both pitchers continue to work at the Cubs' spring training facility in Mesa, Ariz.
Grimm, who hasn't pitched in a game because of right forearm inflammation, could pitch in a simulated game or in an extended spring training game this weekend, general manager Jed Hoyer said. Grimm threw in a career-high 73 games last season.
Ramirez, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since April 16 because of right shoulder inflammation, has yet to throw off a mound. Ramirez pitched a career-high 50 games last season.
Hoyer reported that Ramirez is playing catch and that his shoulder has responded well.
Infielder Tommy La Stella, however, hasn't resumed hitting. La Stella has been out since April 9 because of right rib cage inflammation and has been relegated to working in a swimming pool.
Left-hander Tsuyoshi Wada, who has made three starts on a minor league rehabilitation assignment for Triple-A Iowa, threw a bullpen session under the supervision of pitching coach Chris Bosio before Wednesday's game.
