The Phillies' ace had slowed down his rehab from biceps tendinitis after feeling discomfort earlier in spring.
Hamels entered camp behind the rest of the pitchers after battling biceps tendinitis in November. Since he's roughly a month behind the other members of the Phillies staff, Hamels is likely to begin the season on the disabled list and could miss the majority of April, too.
Hamels said Wednesday morning's side session, the first time he had thrown off the mound since March 1, was the equivalent of "the day before spring training."
WIETERS NURSING SPRAIN
Baltimore Orioles catcher Matt Wieters will miss several games after spraining his right ankle running the bases Tuesday.
Wieters' ankle was heavily taped when he walked into the clubhouse Wednesday. He called it a "slight sprain" and says he'd probably try to play if it was the regular season.
The Orioles are on the road Thursday and Friday. Wieters says it's likely he won't make either trip to allow the swelling to subside.
He says he'll "get treatment on it and ice it up."
If all goes well, Wieters could take some swings in the batting cage on Thursday.
BRAUN GETS ENDORSEMENT DEAL
Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun has agreed to an endorsement deal with baseball footwear and apparel company 3n2 LLC, his first since his suspension last year for violating Major League Baseball's anti-drug agreement.
The company based in Orlando, Fla., announced the agreement Wednesday. Terms were not disclosed for the deal first reported by ESPN.com.
Nike Inc., ended its relationship with Braun after the slugger was suspended 65 games last summer for his involvement with Biogenesis, a Florida clinic accused of distributing performance-enhancing drugs.
He has apologized and returned to the team in spring training.
Company president Marty Graham said the agreement wasn't about the past, but focused on the future. He said the firm has done its research and strongly believes in Braun as an athlete.
RYAN: PATIENCE, PLEASE
On his second day as the Houston Astros' executive adviser, Nolan Ryan asked for patience.
The 67-year-old Hall of Famer is back with the Astros, a team he pitched for during nine of his 27 major league seasons.
During six seasons as president of the Texas Rangers, Ryan helped lead the team to four straight 90-win seasons and World Series appearances in 2010 and 2011. He resigned in October.
The Astros are coming off four consecutive seasons of 100 or more losses.
Contributors: Justin McGuire, The Associated Press
