Cubs' Mark Leiter: Begins throwing program

Leiter (forearm) began a throwing program Friday, Andy Martinez of Marquee Sports Network reports.

Manager Craig Counsell said Leiter is slated to throw again Saturday as the right-hander begins his ramp-up process. It's certainly is a positive sign that the 33-year-old was able to start a throwing program just five days after landing on the IL with a strain in his right (throwing) forearm. He'll still most likely remain on the injured list for more than a minimum-length stay, but a return before the All-Star break hasn't been ruled out yet.