Rusin (oblique) threw from 70 feet in exercises Monday, Nick Groke of The Denver Post reports.
According to manager Bud Black, Rusin's availability to join the starting rotation to begin the season is "in doubt," but he could avoid a trip to the disabled list by heading to the bullpen from the get-go. Black also commented that the left-hander is "pain-free" and simply hasn't had the opportunity to ramp up his workload enough to be considered for a multi-inning role yet. This is a good development for Rusin moving forward, although his upside is limited until he can work his way into a starting role.