Diaz (elbow) has began throwing and plans to resume hitting and catching activities in a simulated game soon, Bill Brink of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Diaz has yet to play in a game this season due to his elbow injury that required surgery in early May. He is expected to return around mid-July and the fact that he will resume some baseball activities is promising. Diaz is not going to participate in any throwing during the simulated game, but has been throwing from 120 feet, which is another encouraging sign. The 25-year-old has only accumulated two at-bats in the majors during his career, but still remains a significant part of the Pirates future.