Chris Carpenter took another step toward to a possible return by tossing a pain-free bullpen session on Friday night.
His career appeared as if it may be over when it was announced in February that he was unlikely to pitch in 2013 as he was still suffering from chronic pain in his neck, shoulder and arm.
Those same symptoms shelved Carpenter for 150 games last season, though he returned late and pitched in the postseason for the St. Louis Cardinals.
"My arm has come back and I feel strong," Carpenter said. "I'm not trying to be a hero or do anything crazy. I just want to go out and see if I can pitch.