Bochy thinks Pence could return in late May

SAN FRANCISCO -- Hunter Pence's first live batting-practice session since he fractured his left arm Friday prompted Giants manager Bruce Bochy to estimate that the right fielder will rejoin the lineup "toward the back end" of May.

Bochy added that he would be shocked if Pence doesn't resume playing sometime this month. Pence, who took 25 swings off a tee, 25 more swings off soft-toss flips and 15 swings in live BP, will repeat the exercise this weekend before being evaluated on Monday. That evaluation, Bochy indicated, could determine Pence's next move.

Bochy also stated that Pence definitely will need to play games in extended spring training or on a Minor League injury rehabilitation assignment before he performs for the Giants. Pence missed essentially the entire Cactus League season, sustaining his injury when he was hit by a pitch in the third game of the spring.

Pence downplayed the significance of his first live BP, though Bochy envisioned it earlier in the week as a "big day." Countered Pence, who recently has increased the intensity of his baseball-related activity, "Every day is the biggest day of my life. I'm doing everything I can to get back."

Pence added, "Whenever they send me off to rehab is the day I can talk all day."

• Bochy said that right-hander Matt Cain (strained flexor tendon) will continue to throw on flat ground for seven to 10 more days. Additionally, right-hander Jake Peavy (strained back) will throw a bullpen session Saturday, marking his first extensive activity since he went on the disabled list April 18.