Furcal Coming Back Soon

Rafael Furcal said that he expects to return to the Dodgers' line-up sometime before the All-Star Break. The shortstop has been on the Disabled-List since May 6. The bulging disk in his back is almost healed and he seems to be optimistic concerning his return. Joe Torre, however, hinted that the slugger may spend an extensive amount of the time in a rehabilitation assignment. Regardless, he would serve as a better option than Angel Berroa at shortstop - injured or not.

Update: Furcal explains to the LA Times that he will resume swinging a bat sometime next week. Joe Torre commented, "He may be back before the break as far as playing some games. Whether they're for us or not is another question."