JUPITER, Fla. • The familiar speed on the backfields of the Cardinals' complex at Roger Dean Stadium could be closer than expected, and around longer, too.
Jordan Schafer, who had his attempt to make the Cardinals' roster as a pitcher and outfielder derailed by an elbow surgery, has started taking swings and working his way back from the injury with an eye on appearing in games this season. Schafer said Thursday that he could start playing in games in August, likely on a rehab assignment.
"As an outfielder," he said.
That doesn't mean pitching has been ruled out.