Hardy (back), who's been sidelined from baseball activities for more than a month, will begin swinging a bat Monday, Eduardo A. Encina of The Baltimore Sun reports.

EDGE Analysis

It's been five weeks since Hardy has swung a bat or fielded ground balls. He admitted that getting back on March 10 -- as originally planned -- is unlikely, but doesn't believe it will long before he makes his spring debut. Hardy believe his back has fully healed, yet says the new challenge is getting into baseball form after sitting dormant for so long. The shortstop hopes to expedite his timetable by tracking bullpen sessions and logging extra at-bats in minor league games.