Ryu takes next step toward recovery from shoulder injury

SAN DIEGO -- With the MRI on Brandon McCarthy's injured elbow set for Monday, Hyun-Jin Ryu delivered the only good news from a Dodgers starting pitcher Sunday when he threw off a mound for the first time since suffering a left shoulder impingement in mid-March.

Ryu made 20 throws and reported no discomfort, although he threw at bullpen speed. He will throw off a mound again Tuesday, but there's no timetable for his return to the club as he essentially must go through a Spring Training to rebuild arm strength for a 100-pitch start in the Major Leagues.

Manager Don Mattingly watched the session and said he was struck by Ryu's command, having not thrown off a mound in five weeks.

"He throws where he wants," Mattingly said. "It's like he hasn't missed a beat. It's a matter of getting him strong. He didn't feel anything, he's had no problem. The process is going good and we'll let it play out."

Mattingly said Sunday would be a day of treatment for McCarthy, who left Saturday night's game in the sixth inning with right elbow pain.

Video: LAD@SD: McCarthy exits after surrendering home run

Although it's more likely that McCarthy will go on the disabled list than make his next start, Mattingly would not speculate on what the Dodgers will do for the spot that would come up Friday, or could be skipped because of Thursday's day off.