3 Michael Cuddyer, RF

Rockies outfielder Michael Cuddyer (neck) is starting to feel better after the epidural shot he received Tuesday.

Cuddyer was cleared to resume baseball activities Saturday. He threw and hit in the cage for the first time since landing on the disabled list. Cuddyer told The Denver Post that he'll be ready to come off the DL Friday at San Francisco. Manager Walt Weiss has not decided if he'll need a minor-league rehab assignment before then.

Contrary to reports earlier in the week, Rockies outfielder Michael Cuddyer might not be physically ready to play when he is eligible to come off the disabled list May 24.

Cuddyer is dealing with an inflamed disc in his neck, and he is advancing slowly in his recovery. He had an epidural shot in the next Wednesday, and is improving slowly.

"I was still pretty locked up yesterday after the epidural, but I'm feeling a little better today," he said to the Denver Post.  

Cuddyer is still a few days from resuming baseball activities. 

Rockies athletic trainer Keith Dugger said Monday that he expects outfielder Michael Cuddyer to go on a rehab assignment and return from the 15-day disabled list when eligible on May 23, MLB.com reports. 

That is based on how Cuddyer's neck has responded to treatments in the past. Cuddyer, who underwent an MRI in Denver Monday, should be able to return in a few days. 

Dugger said the plan is for Cuddyer to undergo an epidural shot. He can gradually work to regain his range of motion and strength about two days following the shot. He'll need a brief rehab assignment before returning for the Rockies. 

Rockies outfielder Michael Cuddyer underwent an MRI which revealed no new issues, the Denver Post reports Monday. Cuddyer is expected to receive an epidural injection for his neck issue. 

Cuddyer was placed on the disabled list Saturday after being unable to show improvement with the bulging disk in his neck. 

Cuddyer, who has experienced neck issues in the past while with the Twins, is batting .319 with seven homers and 23 RBI. 

Rockies outfielder Michael Cuddyer was unable to show progress afetr receiving treatment prior to Saturday's game, so manager Walt Weiss placed him on the 15-day disabled list with a bulging disc in his neck.

Cuddyer, who had some neck issues during his 11-year tenure with the Twins, hit .319 with seven homers and 23 RBI this season before getting hurt.