Chris Carpenter throws bullpen session

ST. LOUIS (AP)—Former Cy Young award winner Chris Carpenter took another step towards possibly returning to the mound by tossing a pain-free bullpen session prior to Friday night’s game with the Colorado Rockies.

The 38-year-old’s career appeared as if it may be over when it was announced in February that he was unlikely to pitch in 2013 as he was still suffering from chronic pain in his neck, shoulder and arm. Those same symptoms shelved Carpenter for 150 games last season, though he returned late and pitched in the postseason.

But when his arm felt pain free this spring after playing catch with his 10-year-old son Sam, Carpenter notified Cardinals General Manager John Mozeliak and was given the go ahead to try again.

Carpenter is 144-94 for his career, which has been beset by injuries that have cost him the better part of five seasons.