Francisco back and taking it easy By MIKE RUTSEY, QMI Agency

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DUNEDIN, Fla. — Frank Francisco was back in the Blue Jays clubhouse on Thursday, his Alabama vacation a thing of the past.

During his stay in the ‘Heart of Dixie,’ Francisco was looked over by Dr. James Andrews, who determined that the Blue Jays were correct in their diagnosis — that there was no structural damage to his right shoulder and that the right-hander was suffering tightness in his pectoral muscle and a slight inflammation of his biceps.

Francisco was in an upbeat mood despite the fact that the new Jays closer would open the season on the disabled list and there is no timetable for his return.

Manager John Farrell said Thursday morning that Francisco will begin his throwing program on Sunday by a game of catch which leads to long toss then throwing on flat ground and finally some bullpens. How long that progression will take is the great unknown and in his absence, big Jon Rauch will handle the closing duties.

“I’m just going to throw nice and easy for three, four days,” Francisco said. “I know what I’m dealing with, it’s not a big deal.”