Helsley (elbow/knee) posted a video on his personal Instagram account last week featuring his throwing a bullpen session off a mound, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.
The Cardinals won't provide a formal update on Helsley's health until the MLB lockout ends and members of the 40-man roster are able to begin spring training, but his ability to throw off a mound at near-peak velocity -- 97 miles per hour, according to the caption of the Instagram video -- is certainly a positive sign that he'll be ready to go for Opening Day, whenever it might be. Helsley didn't make an appearance after Aug. 14 last season due to a stress reaction in his right elbow and a left knee injury that later required offseason surgery. If available for the start of the upcoming season, Helsley will likely fill a setup or middle-relief role for St. Louis.