Pittsburgh — Rafael Soriano is expected to throw a bullpen session this weekend, the first big test of the closer's right elbow since an MRI and bone scan Wednesday revealed no structural damage.

Soriano played catch Friday at PNC Park in Pittsburgh.

Manager Bobby Cox didn't know if John Smoltz would be cleared to begin light throwing this weekend, or if the Braves will have him wait a while longer.

He's on the DL recovering from an inflamed rotator cuff and inflamed biceps tendon, and Smoltz will move to the bullpen when he returns. He thinks that will give him his best chance to get through the season without repeated trips to the DL for his creaky shoulder.

Gonzalez resting up

After resting a week following a minor setback in his recovery from elbow surgery, Mike Gonzalez resumed his rehab in extended spring training in Florida Friday and needed just nine pitches (eight strikes) to record three outs.

The lefty's fastball was clocked at 90 mph, and Braves officials reported he "felt good." His next outing is tentatively scheduled for Monday in Florida.

The Braves hope to have Gonzalez back in the majors by the end of May, twelve months after "Tommy John" ligament-transplant elbow surgery.