Martin will return this weekend, Cingrani making progress

Russell Martin (back)

Dodgers catcher Russell Martin is expected to return to the Dodgers by Sunday, but could ultimately be activated as early as Saturday, per reports from multiple sources.

Martin was placed on the 10-day injured list after experiencing lower back inflammation in early April. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts decided Martin would get to avoid a rehab start earlier this week. Martin would instead catch a simulated game ahead of the Dodgers game against the Pirates on Friday night.

Martin’s return will bring relief to the Dodgers’ current catching situation.

Tony Cingrani

Dodgers reliever Tony Cingrani is making promising strides to return to the ball club soon. The left-handed pitcher threw an inning on Friday evening before the game.

The 29-year-old made his way to the 10-day injured list on Mar. 28 with left shoulder inflammation - the same injury he faced last season.

Cingrani will likely make appearances in a few minor league games in the upcoming week.