Pitcher Yovani Gallardo, who had arthroscopic surgery on his knee on Feb. 19, threw a simulated game and is set to make his first start on Friday, according to several media reports. "The first time throwing without the screen felt a lot better," Gallardo told MLB.com. "It felt normal. That's a good thing. Getting in a game is a big step. It helps know where you're at."

The Texas Rangers plan to play Milton Bradley at designated hitter on Friday, his first appearance since tearing his ACL last September, according to MLB.com. The appearance will allow the team to assess whether or not he will begin the season on the disabled list. "Hopefully, that's not likely," manager Ron Washington said.