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According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Mike Gonzalez is well ahead of schedule in his recovery from Tommy John surgery and hopes to return next month. Gonzalez threw 23 pitches during a two-inning simulated game on Tuesday. Gonzalez was initially expected to be sidelined through the All-Star break, but he’s avoided setbacks and might be able to make it back just 12 months after surgery. If healthy Gonzalez would replace Peter Moylan as the Braves’ primary setup man and could work his way into the mix for saves depending on Rafael Soriano’s health. (Rotoworld)

BP’s Will Carroll has an update in today’s Under The Knife:

We’ve heard this story before—a hard-throwing closer blows out his elbow, gets Tommy John surgery, then comes back early. This time, it’s Gonzalez who’s well ahead of schedule, not B.J. Ryan, throwing a simulated game and going two innings while showing solid velocity. Although he didn’t throw breaking balls, it was a big step forward. The Braves’ medical staff now believes that Gonzalez is ready for an imminent rehab assignment and could be back as soon as mid-May. The typical questions apply about his stamina, stuff, and his ability to recover for use in consecutive games, but the Braves are unusually excited about Gonzalez’s prospects to answer positively to all of them. With Rafael Soriano and Peter Moylan both out, getting Gonzalez back early could be huge. Look for a rehab road map to be laid out next week, with the rehab assignment starting late next week.

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