Chapman says shoulder is good

Updated: Wed 8:26 PM, Sep 19, 2012

CHICAGO (AP) - Cincinnati Reds closer Aroldis Chapman said his fatigued left shoulder "feels good" after throwing a bullpen session Wednesday.

Speaking through an interpreter, Chapman said he likely needs two or three more bullpens to work on his command. The left-hander hasn't pitched in a game since Sept. 10. Chapman is 5-5 with a 1.60 ERA and 35 saves in 40 chances this season. He has 119 strikeouts in 67 2-3 innings pitched.

Reds manager Dusty Baker was unavailable to elaborate on Chapman's progress because he left Wrigley Field to get chest X-rays to rule out pneumonia.

The first-place Reds lead the NL Central by 11 games over the St. Louis Cardinals and can clinch as early as Thursday with a pair of wins and St. Louis losses.

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