Prior throws off mound

Pittsburgh — Mark Prior threw nearly 50 pitches off a mound Wednesday and expects to start throwing to batters at the Chicago Cubs’ extended spring training camp next week. Recovering from right Achilles’ tendinitis and a sore elbow, Prior has thrown about 85 pitches since Monday.

Giants option Aardsma

San Francisco — The San Francisco Giants optioned right-hander David Aardsma, their No. 1 draft pick last year, to Triple-A Fresno on Wednesday and recalled lefty Noah Lowry.