MIAMIThe Cubs framed the idea as saving bullets for the regular season.
The organization downplayed the 10-day gap between appearances for Kerry Wood in March. The veteran reliever said nothing was wrong physically, and insisted that he was ready after pitching only five innings in spring training.
Wood played catch on Tuesday at Marlins Park, but then left the team to fly back to Chicago, where he will receive a cortisone shot for his right shoulder.
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If the shoulder responds, the Cubs hope Wood will be available by the weekend. If not, theres the possibility that Wood could land on the disabled list for the 16th time in his career.
Its been sort of off and on, really, since the beginning of spring, general manager Jed Hoyer said. Were trying to get him right. I dont have all the years and years of background with himlike a lot of people dobut I know his arm is always something that is touch-and-go.
Right now, were trying to be proactive. Were 10 games into a 162-game season. Were trying to be smart about it and try to let him get right here and hopefully be back real soon.