Lorenzen expected to return to Reds bullpen on Wednesday

Reliever has been on DL all season with right shoulder strain

Relief pitcher Michael Lorenzen, who has spent the entire season on the disabled list, should rejoin the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday after making three rehab appearances with Double-A Pensacola.

Lorenzen was in the Reds clubhouse on Tuesday before the start of a three-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Great American Ball Park.

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“It feels good to almost be back,” Lorenzen said. “I think all parties are happy. I think the training staff is sick of me arguing with them and debating with them when I should be back. I’m excited to finally be here and see the light at the end of the tunnel.”

A right shoulder strain sidelined Lorenzen in spring training. He allowed one hit and no runs in four innings with Pensacola. His two-inning outing Sunday was the last hurdle before his return.

“I feel great with one day off,” Lorenzen said. “I feel good to go (Tuesday).”

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Lorenzen said it was the Reds’ decision to not activate him Tuesday. The move is expected to come Wednesday. He said he wanted to pitch three weeks ago. He has felt great for a while now.

“I want to be out there seeing the guys play,” Lorenzen said. “ It’s tough to watch. With (Jared) Hughes and the leadership in the bullpen, they were able to do a real good job without me.”

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