Narveson ready to bounce back for Brewers

PHOENIX - Chris Narveson was not happy with the way his season ended last year.  He's hoping for a better start to 2013.

Narveson, who injured his shoulder early in the 2012 season, threw live batting practice to Brewers hitters on Wednesday.

"I'm pumped, it's one of those things you're already amped up getting ready to come back in but, having the fact that you're healthy now, that's an even bigger rush," said Narveson.  "You're so amped up when you come in, you want to get going and you know it's a long spring but at the same time I'm super excited."

The Brewers lefty started 30 games in 2011 and 37 in 2010.  If he can stay healthy, he's expected to claim one of the three open spots in the Brewers starting rotation.  Manager Ron Roenicke is happy with what he's seen from Narveson early in camp.

"We're really pleased with not only that the ball is coming out...He's free but also how he's commanding the ball," Roenicke said.  "That's the thing you worry about with shoulder injuries is coming back and commanding the ball."

If he were to claim a spot in the rotation, Narveson would be the only left-handed starter in that squad.  Right-handers Yovani Gallardo and Marco Estrada are the only two pitchers who are considered shoe-ins for the rotation.

The Brewers open up Cactus League play against the Oakland Athletics on Saturday.