masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgOrioles shortstop J.J. Hardy didn’t report any discomfort after swinging a bat yesterday for the first time since going on the disabled list with a strained left oblique. Hardy increased the intensity of his activities today, which included running and throwing.

Hardy eventually will go on an injury rehab assignment. The initial plan called for him to play at least two games in the minors.

Brian Matusz (strained left intercostal) threw from a slight incline on the lower portion of the…Orioles shortstop J.J. Hardy didn’t report any discomfort after swinging a bat yesterday for the first time since going on the disabled list with a strained left oblique. Hardy increased the intensity of his activities today, which included running and throwing.

Hardy eventually will go on an injury rehab assignment. The initial plan called for him to play at least two games in the minors.

Brian Matusz (strained left intercostal) threw from a slight incline on the lower portion of the bullpen mound today. He could repeat the process on Thursday or throw an actual side session.

Chris Jakubauskas (groin) threw in the bullpen today and is “close to being ready,” according to manager Buck Showalter. The club hasn’t decided whether Jakubauskas will make the trip to Chicago.

Justin Duchscherer (hip, back) had a side session after being restricted to flat ground, but it was light throwing. Nothing strenuous.