Picking up a ball and playing catch is something Jameson Taillon has been doing basically since the time he began walking.
However, it will have a little extra significance when he does so Thursday before the Pirates and Cubs finish their four-game series at PNC Park. Independence Day will mark a break from the monotony of the right elbow flexor tendon strain that has sidelined Taillon since May 2.
Taillon is expected to throw from 50-60 feet.
“My goal is to pick up a ball and, if all goes well, get back to pitching,” Taillon said Wednesday.