Willie Bloomquist (oblique) could begin a rehab assignment midway through the week.

Bloomquist has been playing games at extended spring training and hasn't had any recent setbacks. He should be ready for activation before the end of the month.

Willie Bloomquist (oblique) has resumed taking batting practice.

Bloomquist was given a weekend off after he still felt something in his oblique during an extended spring training game. He's unlikely to return this month. "I wouldn't call it a setback," Bloomquist said. "It just wasn't ready for that type of intensity yet, and there's only one way to find out. You're feeling good in batting practice and everything else, but game speed is a little bit different."

Diamondbacks general manager Kevin Towers said Monday that he expects Willie Bloomquist (oblique) back in late May.

Bloomquist's oblique strain must be a severe one, as he's been out all season. He began playing in extended spring training games late last month, but evidently he's not ready for a rehab assignment yet.