Kip

Wells

As of now, John Van Benschoten is slated to start Sunday, but Wells could get the nod if everything checks out.

Assuming no problems, the Pirates are hopeful Wells came come off the disabled list later this week.

Although he is scheduled to begin a throwing program on Friday, according to manager Lloyd McClendon “In all likelihood, it’s going to be awfully hard to see him out there again. I don’t rule it out completely, but it’s unlikely.” Good move by the Pirates.

Wells, who has right elbow inflammation, threw between 20 and 30 pitches in a simulated game Saturday and will throw again today. He’ll accompany the team on the road trip.

This isn’t related to the elbow problem that cut his season short. Wells will have stitches in his hand for 10-14 days. He should be able to resume throwing in 6-8 weeks, so his offseason throwing program won’t be affected.

Wells has some discomfort in his elbow with which the Pirates intend to be cautious.

Wells plans to take part in the Pirates’ minicamp later this month. “He’s doing fine,” GM Dave Littlefield said. “It’s pointing to a healthy year for Kip.”

Wells will be just a little behind when exhibition games. There’s little doubt he’ll be ready to take his place in the rotation at the start of the year, but he’ll still be someone to keep an eye on.

''Looked even better than minicamp, and I was impressed at minicamp,’' pitching coach Spin Williams said. ''Kip’s our biggest issue, so it’s encouraging.’' Wells certainly will be ready to take his turn in the rotation at the start of the season. Still, he’ll be someone to watch in spring training. He didn’t have his usual stuff at times last year.

Wells will throw a sideline session today to see if he is on track for Sunday’s start.