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Deal him in? ‘Strong possibility’ Cubs closer Craig Kimbrel activated for Cards series opener

Closer Craig Kimbrel’s elbow appeared to check out fine Wednesday, the day after throwing a simulated inning, and Maddon said after the game there’s a “strong possibility” he’ll be activated for Thursday’s opener of the big Cards series.

Kimbrel declined to talk with media before and again after the game.

He played catch again during routine pregame work, which was considered the last step to take before a possible final evaluation early Thursday.

Kimbrel hasn’t pitched since Sept. 1 because of a sore elbow, leading to his second trip to the injured list (also sore knee) in less than three months with the club.