TAMPA, Fla. -- The Pirates' Freddy Sanchez took a significant stride toward being ready for opening day, playing second base for the first time since March 21 in a minor-league game in Bradenton, Fla.

Earlier in the day, manager John Russell had projected that Sanchez, slowed all spring by an ailing right shoulder, would make that return tomorrow.. But Sanchez reported for work "feeling really good," Russell said, and was given clearance.

Sanchez played defense for both teams for four innings and took "a couple" at-bats," Russell said.

After the March 21 game, he complained of significant pain and sought a second medical opinion. That opinion confirmed the Pirates' diagnosis of simple inflammation in the rotator cuff.

Unless Sanchez has a significant setback, he is expected to be on the opening-day roster Monday in Atlanta, even if only as a pinch-hitter. But Russell made clear that decision has not yet been made.

"We'll see how he feels tomorrow," Russell said. "If he's fine, he'll probably do the same thing again."

More details in tomorrow's Post-Gazette.

More details in tomorrow's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.