Here’s a running list of injury updates around the Major Leagues:

– According to David Hale of the Wilmington News Journal, Chase Utley could be close to beginning his rehab assignment. The Phillies’ second baseman has participated in two simulated games in the past three days, but he’s not ready to proclaim himself ready for extended spring training or a rehab assignment.

– Josh Hamilton will be taking his first swings after his shoulder fracture on Wednesday reports Anthony Andro of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Hamilton will hit off a tee at Rangers Ballpark, and it’s happening a week ahead of the original time frame.

– An MRI on Jose Bautista showed no structural damage, just muscle inflammation according to John Lott of the National Post. It appears that the 2010 home run king is going to avoid a trip to the Disabled List.

– Center fielder Andres Torres played nine innings and took five AB’s in an extended Spring Training game today reports Andrew Baggarly of the San Jose Mercury News. The team thinks Torres will be activated when the club returns home Friday.

– John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer tweets that right handed pitcher Johnny Cueto will be activated for Sunday’s game in Chicago.

Image by Shannon Lamond under the Creative Commons License.