Harrison nearing return to game action

SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Rangers pitcher Matt Harrison, who was set back early in camp because of some back issues, is getting closer to pitching in a game. Harrison threw 12 minutes of batting practice on Friday without any issues.

Harrison had been throwing bullpen sessions leading up to Spring Training, but this was the first time he has faced hitters since last season. Harrison made two starts in 2013 before being lost for the year with a herniated disk in his lower back.

"I was a little nervous," Harrison said. "At 7:15 this morning, I was walking around with butterflies in my stomach. I felt good. Half was from the stretch and half was from the windup. I had a couple of issues with my timing, but I was able to find it right away."

Harrison is planning to throw a bullpen session on Sunday. If that goes well, he could pitch in a "B" game on Tuesday.