Putz throws simulated game

PHOENIX -- D-backs reliever J.J. Putz threw a simulated game prior to batting practice Friday afternoon at Chase Field.

"I thought it went well," Putz said. "I felt good, threw some good pitches."

Putz, who has been on the disabled list since May 4 with right forearm tightness, threw 24 pitches.

The next step for Putz will be to see how he feels Saturday. If all goes well he will throw another simulated game Monday at Salt River Fields and then the team would like to get him in back-to-back games somewhere Thursday and Friday.

"We expect he will be fine, but you never know," D-backs manager Kirk Gibson said. "His fastball command is what you're interested in. I thought he got a little tired at the end, but overall, for first time on the mound, I thought he did pretty good."

Putz worked up quite a sweat with the roof open, the sun shining brightly and triple-digit temperatures.

"The main thing is you get good and loose," Putz joked about the weather. "I'm encouraged by it."