Cliff

Politte

''We want Politte to throw a couple of times before he comes back up here,’' manager Carlos Tosca said. ''Josh is supposed to play two games and I’d like for him to have four at-bats each one of those games.’'

The deal could be announced today. If Billy Koch fails to bounce back, Politte could act as Damaso Marte’s top setup man for the White Sox.

Politte looks like one of the best values among the remaining free agent relievers. He’d be a nice pickup by the White Sox.

The team is looking for one or two right-handed setup men. Dave Veres and Turk Wendell are a couple of other possibilities.

''Having Politte kind of down there does give the bullpen a little more order,’' Tosca said. ''I think right now I would prefer that... it structures our bullpen a little bit better. He’s the guy that has the equipment to pitch that inning.’' Politte should be the best bet for saves in Toronto again.

Depending on the hitter, that will mean lefties Jason Kershner and Trever Miller, or righthander Alquilino Lopez. As for Politte, the Jays are looking for him to either establish himself as the closer, or prove he’s not suited for the role. Most of the organization believes Lopez has the best mindset for a closer on the club, but his lesser velocity is keeping him from landing the job.

The White Sox may send Agustin Montero down to make room for Politte on the roster, keeping them at 11 pitchers.

Politte is scheduled to pitch Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, and barring a setback would then return from the disabled list next week.

“It went all right,’' Politte said. “Still felt some discomfort, but that could be from the seven days without throwing.” Politte is eligible to return on June 20.

“It’s not good news because of what I’m going through, but we want to get it right and finish up strong,” Politte said. Politte could begin throwing as soon as Monday.