Phils notes: Polanco aims to return by the weekend

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Placido Polanco, who received two epidural injections in his back last Thursday, is feeling so good that he hopes to start a two-game rehab assignment Thursday in Lehigh Valley, then return to the Phillies' lineup by the weekend.

I dont mind his optimism, but well talk to Charlie Manuel and the trainers and see how much time he needs, said GM Ruben Amaro, Jr.

One rehab start definitely scheduled, however, is Roy Oswalts Wednesday start at Lehigh Valley. Oswalt has received two injections for his bulging disk.

Right now he feels great, said Amaro. Hes able to do some exercises to take some pressure off the nerves.

Thats part of the problem, you cant do the exercises to do the rehab that is necessary. Fact he can do the exercises, that helps him. Im cautiously optimistic hell be OK the rest of the year.

Projections for both Joe Blanton (elbow) and Jose Contreras (forearm) remain much more problematic. Well find out more tomorrow, said Amaro about Blanton. They are going to do some more studies with him.

Its troublesome because its been a problem for a while. He gets revved up and things go well and then he has a bit of a setback. Once he sees a doctorwell talk some more about whatever kinds of tests need to be done.

Right now Contreras is going to get a PRP injection again. Done two MRIs on him, still has some lingering stiffness in there. Well try to get it out and jump him over the hump.

Polanco, out since July 1, is convinced he has cleared a small mountain.

Its a little bit sore, but from the workout, not even close to what I felt before, he said. Its a good soreness from working those muscles.

Polanco says he isnt sure what was in those shots, and isnt sure if he will need more.

Nobody knows, he said. Sometimes you get one shot and you never need another one. Some need them every three or four months but its not a problem that I have had so ...

Seems like I have been out forever. If we were losing, I would feel guilty.

E-mail Jay Greenberg at jayg616@aol.com.

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