D-Rob on track for Tuesday return from DL

ST. PETERSBURG -- Closer David Robertson threw a bullpen session on Thursday at Tropicana Field and remains on track to be activated from the 15-day disabled list on Tuesday, the first day that he would be eligible.

Robertson said that he has felt a great deal of improvement in his strained left groin and could have resumed pitching a few days ago. He has been scheduled to pitch in a Minor League game at the Yankees' complex in Tampa, Fla., on Saturday.

"I'll definitely try to focus more on stretching it a little better before games; kind of do my prep work a little better instead of just walking out to the bullpen," Robertson said.

Robertson is happy to see the bullpen succeeding in his absence. Shawn Kelley has taken over as interim closer, and both David Phelps and Adam Warren have picked up their first career saves since Robertson was injured.

"I didn't think every game would end up in a save situation, but they've nailed it down and looked really good doing it," Robertson said. "We've got a lot of experience here. These guys are doing a great job."