Albert Pujols: Cleared to swing off tee

Pujols has been cleared to hit off a tee, FOX Sports reports.

Analysis:

After removing the walking boot on his right foot in early January, Pujols will soon take another step in his recovery. The development doesn't change the expectation that the 36-year-old will reach full baseball activities by late March, which would likely equate to a DL trip to begin the season. Under that scenario, C.J. Cron would take a crack at regular DH duty until Pujols is ready to return.