Thome progressing well

[WebHamster]

Clearwater, FL (Sports Network) - The Philadelphia Phillies announced that first baseman Jim Thome is progressing very well on his fractured middle right finger after an examination was done Monday morning.

Thome, who is still on course to be ready for Opening Day, has been given clearance to play, but will wear a special splint on his finger through the next two weeks.

Thome suffered the injury during fielding drills on March 5, and it was feared the first baseman could have been sidelined until early in the regular season.

The 33-year-old Thome was acquired last year during the offseason and signed a six-year, $85 million contract. He proved to be worthy of the money, as he hit 47 home runs, tied for most in the majors, with 131 RBI and a .266 batting average.