Injured Chicago Cubs starter Ryan Dempster threw 40 pitches off a mound during the latest step in his recovery, and he's on schedule to return to the team following the All-Star break, according to ESPN Chicago's Doug Padilla.
Dempster 40 pitches off a mound. A simulated game is next. Still set to return after the break.
— Doug Padilla (@ESPNChiCubs) July 2, 2012
Related: Cubs Transactions 2012: Chicago Signs SS Frandy De La Rosa Out Of The Dominican Republic
The veteran righthander was in the midst of an outstanding season before being sidelined: in 81 innings pitched over 12 starts for the Cubs, he struck out 66, walked 22 and compiled a 2.11 ERA.
He's also been the subject of several trade rumors during the 2012 season.
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