Hardy (back) will fully participate in baseball activities Friday, Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hardy has been slowly eased back into action while dealing with an ailing back, but it appears the worst days are behind him. He began swinging a bat Monday and says he's nearly at full strength. The veteran shortstop will start taking grounders Friday and is likely to make his spring debut within the following days. When he does return to action, expect Hardy to see extra at-bats to get back on track for Opening Day.