Reds LH Marshall has setback, Ludwick is better

Reds left-handed reliever Sean Marshall had another setback in his comeback from a sore pitching shoulder, forcing him to cut back on his throwing program for a few days.

Manager Dusty Baker said Marshall saw a doctor after he had a problem while throwing. The set-up specialist has been on the disabled list since May 24.

''He had a minor setback yesterday,'' Baker said, before the start of a weekend series against the Pittsburgh Pirates. ''He went to see a doctor. He's going to get back on it soon. He's doing well.''

The Reds also are missing right-handed setup man Jonathan Broxton, on the DL since June 15 with a sore elbow. He's closer to being ready for a return.

Cleanup hitter Ryan Ludwick took batting practice on the field Thursday for the first time since he tore cartilage in his right shoulder while sliding into third base on opening day. Ludwick isn't expected back until sometime in August.

The Reds anticipate a long rehabilitation stint in the minors for Ludwick because he's been unable to swing a bat for more than three months.

''He looked real good,'' Baker said. ''So he might be ready to go out there (on a rehab assignment) pretty soon. We have to get him enough at-bats.''

Right-handed starter Johnny Cueto went back to the Dominican Republic over the All-Star break because of an illness in the family. Baker said he's expected back on Saturday. Cueto is on the disabled list for the third time this season with soreness in the back of his right shoulder.

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