Braves' Minor hoping to return late April or early May

Atlanta Braves left-hander Mike Minor is hoping a bout with shoulder inflammation doesn't keep him out for any longer than the first month of the season. 

Minor, who began last season on the disabled list and eventually missed 50 days with the same injury, is expected to begin a throwing program this week and is hoping to be ready by late April or early May, according to Mark Bowman of MLB.com. 

The 27-year-old managed a 6-12 record last season and 4.77 ERA in 25 starts. He's expected to rejoin the Braves' rotation when he returns.