Blue Jays SS Troy Tulowitzki takes batting practice, says he will be ready for post-season

BALTIMORE – Toronto shortstop Troy Tulowitzki tested his injured shoulder by taking batting practice Monday and expects to return in time for the post-season.

Tulowitzki hasn’t played since Sept. 12, when he cracked his scapula and bruised muscles in his upper back after colliding with teammate Kevin Pillar in a game against the Yankees.

After taking between 30 and 40 swings, Tulowitzki said, “Hitting is the last thing. This is pretty much the first time I have hit live.”

Tulowitzki took a few cuts outside before a rain shower forced him to conclude the session indoors.

The Blue Jays obtained Tulowitzki from Colorado on July 28 in a multi-player deal. He’s batting just .232 with the Blue Jays, but they’re 30-8 with him in the starting lineup.

Manager John Gibbons says Tulowitzki could return sometime this week. The Blue Jays entered Monday’s game against the Orioles with a magic number of four to clinch the AL East title.

Asked if he expected to be ready for the post-season, Tulowitzki replied, “Definitely.”