Chicago Cubs Morrow eyes return from DL

Brandon Morrow is looking to return off the disabled list by the end of next week, the Chicago Cubs reliever told reporters after throwing a 35-pitch bullpen session on Wednesday.

However, Morrow, who leads the Cubs with 22 saves, doesn't expect to return to the closer role.

"I'm just looking forward to coming back and contributing at all," Morrow said. "There haven't been any hiccups from [Pedro Strop], so there's no reason to switch up what's been working, even if I come back at 101 percent."

Strop entered Wednesday night's game with 13 saves.

Morrow, who has a 1.47 ERA in 35 games this season, last pitched on July 15. He landed on the DL with right biceps inflammation.

Morrow is expected to throw a simulated game within the next few days.

Manager Joe Maddon hasn't decided on how he will use Morrow once the right-hander returns.

"The guy's been out for a long time, and other guys have been pitching well," Maddon said. "Of course, we want him to be that guy, of course, you do. But if he's not ready yet then don't force it."

Meanwhile, starter Yu Darvish had arthroscopic debridement surgery for his right elbow in Dallas on Wednesday after receiving a second opinion from Dr. James Andrews, the team announced.

Darvish was ruled out for the season by the Cubs last month. The team expects him to be ready to pitch in time for spring training.