Diamondbacks' Jordan Montgomery: Encouraging session Thursday

Montgomery threw 40 pitches over two simulated innings on the backfields Thursday, Steve Gilbert of MLB.com reports.

Montgomery was hammered in his first Cactus League start last Saturday, and for a couple of reasons, including rain forecasted for Thursday evening, the Diamondbacks had him throw a backfield session Thursday afternoon instead of taking a turn in a game environment. It was a controlled environment where the left-hander could hit his pitch count and get in an up-and-down. All involved thought it was good session for Montgomery, who is expected throw next in a Cactus League game. He believes there's still time to get ready for the regular season, and the fact that he'd be fifth in line gives him a bit more time. Due to a day off following the first series of the season -- a four-game set against the Cubs -- Arizona will not require a fifth starter until April 5.