CLEVELAND (AP) — Indians closer Chris Perez and first baseman Nick Swisher have moved closer to returning from shoulder injuries.
Perez threw a 30-pitch bullpen session, which manager Terry Francona said went “really well” on Friday. Perez, who has been sidelined since May 27 with a strained rotator cuff, will throw a simulated game Sunday at Double-A Akron. Perez will likely make a rehab appearance next week in the minors before he is activated, Francona said.
Perez gave up five runs — three homers — in one inning earlier this week for the Aeros.
Swisher took pregame batting practice and could be back in the lineup as early as Saturday. He’s been out for nearly a week with a sore left shoulder. Swisher received a cortisone shot and has been receiving treatment for the injury.
