MESA, Ariz. _ Shortstop Addison Russell believes his back has improved to the point where he could return to the Cubs lineup as soon as Wednesday.
Russell will need to show some progress soon as the Cubs move closer to finalizing their 25-man roster by Sunday night's season opener at St. Louis, but manager Joe Maddon doesn't believe Russell could be placed on the 10-day disabled list.
"Not considering it right now," Maddon said Tuesday. "I talked to (trainer) PJ Mainville, and he said (Russell) is going to be fine."
Russell showed no signs of discomfort as he leaned over to unpack some cleats while expressing his optimism.
"We're trying to start the season on a good note and definitely in St. Louis," Russell said. "That's kind of goal. But if the back doesn't feel well by then, maybe that (going on the disabled list) is something we have to do. But the way I'm feeling, I don't think it's necessary."
Russell, who hasn't played since Wednesday, plans to get the bulk of work in games at Houston on Thursday and Friday.
"I feel like it's 95 percent better," Russell said before walking around with a heat pack behind his back. "We're not trying to take it too quick. I think missing a few games here in the spring are a lot better than a few games in the season.
"I've talked to Joe, and there's no hurry back. I think in Houston I'll get the most reps before I play again. We'll go from there. But as far as tightness, it's getting a lot better."
Russell said he felt discomfort the morning after a night game against the Reds last Wednesday.
"I was aware of it coming here and trying to get it loose, (but) it wasn't doing what it was supposed to do," Russell said. "I went into the cage, tried to take my time, and there just wasn't a swing or anything. I just felt it and said, 'hey, I'm going to go into the training room. It's better that I analyze my body and make sure I'm aware of what's going on there.'
"If I wasn't, I could take free hacks and be out even longer. It's not really bad of an injury and looking forward to getting back in the lineup."
