News Briefs: Hanrahan cleared to throw; Whisenhunt, Cards agree to extension

Right-handed pitcher Joel Hanrahan was examined today in Pensacola, FL, by Dr. James Andrews and Dr. Andrews concurs with Pirates’ Medical Director Dr. Pat DeMeo’s assessment of the MRI and other tests conducted in Bradenton this week.

Hanrahan is expected to continue doing strength work and is scheduled to start playing catch next week. After he has progressed through the normal throwing program out to 120 feet, he can return to throwing off the mound.

At this point in time, Hanrahan could be ready for the start of the regular season.

Righthander Jose Ascanio, who had arthroscopic surgery on his right shoulder on October 2, was also examined by Dr. Andrews today. Ascanio’s strength and range of motion is continuing to improve and he remains on track for a mid to late June return.

The Arizona Cardinals and head coach Ken Whisenhunt have reportedly agreed to a 4 year extension through 2013 with an option for a fifth year. The deal will make Whisenhunt among the top five paid head coaches in the game and Jason LaCanfora of NFL.com, reports that Whisenhunt will make $5 million per season.

Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers are set to open up contract negotiations with head coach Mike Tomlin this spring.

Tomlin is currently one of the lowest paid coaches in the game with an annual salary of $2.5 million, earning a Super Bowl title in just his second season in 2008.

The Steelers balked at paying former head coach Bill Cowher $6 million per season during contract talks in 2006 but the market has changed.

Minnesota Vikings head coach Brad Childress signed a multi-year extension during the regular season worth close to $4.5 million per season and Whisenhunt’s new deal puts Tomlin in line to command a contract upwards of $5 million per season.