Righthander Adam Wainwright had a “very favorable” bullpen session Monday afternoon, said Shildt, who suggested that Wainwright could make a start before the end of this homestand, which ends Sunday. Wainwright is able to come off the 10-day IL on Thursday, meaning he could start that night or the next against Albert Pujols and the Angels. Michael Wacha, who blanked Miami on five hits for six innings a week ago Monday, would seem the more natural choice for Thursday.
Shildt confirmred that Daniel Ponce de Leon, who allowed one run in four innings last Friday in New York, will pitch on Wednesday against the Marlins after Jack Flaherty goes on Tuesday.