Prior passes first test
MESA, Ariz. -- Mark Prior threw off the mound on Tuesday for the first time in more than two weeks, and his right Achilles passed the test. Prior threw 25 to 30 pitches, and Cubs general manager Jim Hendry said that everything went well.

"It was just as we would've hoped," said Hendry. "There was no discomfort."

Prior, 23, will throw long toss from flat ground on Wednesday, and be back on the mound on Thursday for an extended side session.