by Ken Rosenthal

Troy Glaus.

Glaus, who has yet to play this season while recovering from surgery on his right shoulder, is progressing better with his hitting than his throwing, according to a source with knowledge of his recovery process.

While Glaus hit off a pitching machine for the first time Monday and could be ready for a minor-league rehabilitation assignment by the middle of next week, he is struggling to throw at distances of greater than 90 feet, the source said.

If Glaus cannot play third base, he will be of virtually no use to the Cardinals. Albert Pujols, perhaps the best player in the game, is the team's first baseman. The Cardinals also are finished with inter- league play, eliminating any possible need for a DH.

Glaus, who turns 33 on Aug. 3, is an above-average defender at third, but has played only four career games at first. He also is earning $11.25 million this season, at a time when few clubs are willing to take on additional payroll.

To trade Glaus, the Cardinals likely would need to pay a sizable percentage of his remaining salary. The Rangers, Mets, Giants and Braves are among the contenders who could seek help at first base. The Tigers and Mariners are among those who could upgrade at DH.