DOWNTOWN — Matt Clement, the Cardinals free-addition still winding his way back to the majors after shoulder surgery, will begin a rehab assignment Tuesday, club officials confirmed this afternoon. Clement will begin his rehab assignment with High-A Palm Beach and advance from there. The righthander, signed to a one-year deal this past offseason, can remain on his assignment for, at most, 30 days.

A Cardinals official said he’s headed out because it’s time for him to begin working his way back to the major-league staff, and because his performance in extended spring has mandated the move.

In other news from Florida, closer Jason Isringhausen will throw to hitters for the first time Saturday in a simulated game. He will split time in the game with two other recovering pitchers — RHP Chris Carpenter and RHP Brad Thompson.

More on all the above news in Saturday’s paper and on StlToday.com later tonight.

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