Seattle Mariners right-hander Hisashi Iwakuma threw in the bullpen on Thursday for the first time since he went on the disabled list in April.
Iwakuma, who is on the disabled list with a strained back and side, declared his 27-pitch session in the bullpen at Safeco Field a success.
"I didn't have any trouble with the injured areas," said Iwakuma, who threw fastballs from a no-windup motion and out of a set position. "I don't have a feel for the ball yet, but I went into the bullpen and was able to throw as I expected.
"Pitching off a slope felt different, but I'm glad I was able to pitch while checking that out."
Iwakuma will likely throw more bullpens before throwing batting practice and pitching in the minors on a rehab assignment. He has pitched in just three games this season and is 0-1 with a 6.61 ERA.