Doolittle (shoulder) could start throwing next week, the San Francisco Chronicle's Susan Slusser reports.

EDGE Analysis

Once he starts throwing, it won't take long before he is ready to rejoin the big league club. He could head out on a brief rehab assignment and be back before the end of the month if everything goes according to plan. Ryan Madson retains a hold on the closer's role, although Doolittle had outpitched him prior to the injury. If he returns to form, he could notch a handful of saves before the end of the season if Madson falters.