Corbin Burnes: Everything you need to know

Burnes (elbow) threw to a hitter Friday for the first time post-surgery, MLB.com reports. The rehabbing Burnes faced the rehabbing Jordan Lawlar (wrist), marking the first time either player has faced a live opponent during their respective recoveries. Next up for Burnes is another batting practice session Tuesday. The right-hander is expected to return midseason, likely following the All-Star break.

Burnes (elbow) is expected to begin throwing live batting practice Friday, Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic reports. Burnes will first have to make it through two more bullpen sessions, but assuming he doesn't suffer any setbacks, he'll be cleared to face live hitters for the first time since undergoing Tommy John surgery last June. The 31-year-old righty said he also expects to begin playing in rehab games in a few weeks and is aiming to make his season debut for the D-backs around the All-Star break.

Burnes (elbow) threw a bullpen session Tuesday, Jose M. Romero of the Arizona Republic reports. Burnes has been throwing occasional bullpen sessions since spring training -- Tuesday's session was his fourth -- so there was nothing particularly notable about Tuesday's activity. "He just wants to make sure everything is feeling right, he's duplicating his delivery," Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said of Burnes. The pitcher is still on track to return near or after the All-Star break.