ST. LOUIS - Cubs pitcher Matt Garza said he felt better the day after exiting his start early because of cramping near his elbow, and said he expects to avoid the disabled list.

``I could move it today, unlike yesterday,'' Garza said Sunday morning.

Manager Dale Sveum also sounded optimistic but suggested he could use Thursday's off day to push back Garza's next scheduled start as a precaution if necessary.

``I think we'll know a heck of a lot more [Monday], especially [Monday] evening,'' he said.

Meanwhile, contenders looking at Garza as a possible trade target between now and the July 31 non-waiver deadline closely monitored the updates on his condition Sunday.

Still interested if he stays off the DL?

``Why not?'' said one ranking National League evaluator. ``His last pitch [in Saturday's third] was 96 [mph] on the black.''

But interested at the steep price the Cubs are seeking? ``That's the thing,'' he said.