Morrow, Johnson resume throwing

SAN DIEGO -- Two ailing Padres pitchers progressed toward returning on Friday, as Brandon Morrow and Josh Johnson resumed throwing.

Johnson threw in the bullpen for the first time since April, when he pitched a simulated game at Petco Park. Re-signed to a one-year contract after missing all of last season, Johnson is recovering from his second Tommy John surgery.

Morrow, who has been sidelined since May 5 with right shoulder inflammation, played catch in the outfield prior to Friday night's game against Washington. It's the first time Morrow has thrown since going on the disabled list and receiving a cortisone shot in the shoulder on May 5.

One of San Diego's most effective starters before getting hurt, Morrow was 2-0 with a 2.73 ERA in five starts, and was replaced in the rotation by Friday's starter, Odrisamer Despaigne.

Morrow's return date remains uncertain, but he'll be eligible to come off the disabled list next Friday.

As for Johnson, Padres manager Bud Black was eager to watch him throw again, but was uncertain what to expect.

"He's going to throw off of the mound," Black said. "We'll see. I don't know how many pitches."