Padres' Matt Thornton: Could return as early as Friday

Thornton (Achilles) could return to the Padres as early as Friday, Dennis Lin of the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

Analysis:

Thornton was roughed up a bit in his most recent rehab appearance, giving up two runs on two hits in an inning with High-A Lake Elsinore, but his Achilles is feeling much better and is even holding up through PFP during games. No official move has been made yet, but it seems as if the veteran left-hander is very close to making his debut in the Padres bullpen.