Remember how awesome it was when the Cincinnati Reds shocked the off-season baseball world by signing Ryan Madson as their closer? That was pretty cool. You know what would be even cooler? Having Madson actually pitch in a game.

Madson has made no appearances in games so far this Spring Training, thanks to pain he felt in his elbow during his first bullpen throwing session.

“It’s pretty close to 100 percent right now,” Madson said. “I never had any problems like that before, I don’t know what it was. Now we’ve gotten through it and it feels great. Just looking forward to getting in some games and getting my feet wet.”

That’s good news. And when might we get to see him pitch for the first time in a Reds uniform?

“I don’t feel anything right now, and I should be in games by the end of next week. That will give me plenty of time to be ready for the season.”

I look forward to that. Madson is an important part of the Reds’ improved 2012 bullpen.