Michael Wacha, who hasn’t tossed a pitch since June 17 for the Cardinals, will be examined again by doctors this morning to determine whether the unusual stress reaction in his right shoulder has healed to the point that Wacha can begin throwing again.

He is confident that the results will be positive.

“I’m definitely looking forward to it,” he said. “I’ve been doing the rehab. My arm feels good and hopefully it looks a little bit better.

“I definitely have high optimism on throwing again this year,” said Wacha, 5-5 with a 2.79 earned run average.

But the patience of the 23-year-old postseason star of last year has been tested. “It’s tough just sitting around and not being able to pitch,” he said.

“This hasn’t been very fun — the waiting game. It’s a little frustrating, but I’m just staying the course.”

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