Finally some good news: assuming batting practice continues to go well, Chicago Cubs third baseman Aramis Ramirez could begin a minor league rehab stint as soon as tomorrow.
Piniella did not know where Ramirez would be playing, but he expects to get him 20-25 at-bats. That suggests Ramirez could be back for next week’s series against Atlanta at Wrigley Field.
“It’s been a long time for Ramirez,” Piniella said. “He’ll know (when he’s ready). He’s a professional hitter. He can tell us more than we can tell him, honestly. He’s worked hard, to his credit. We thought it would be about two months, and that would be the time-frame. We’re pleased with that.” Hardball.
Any time the Cubs get Ramirez back before the All Star break is a bonus. Of course, he’ll be ginger defensively, and rusty offensively. Oh, and the bat he’ll replace has been one of the few hitting well, in Jake Fox.
Can Ramirez play second base?