Royals' Chen feels 'really good' after simulated game

KANSAS CITY -- Left-hander Bruce Chen threw 25 pitches in a simulated game on Monday afternoon at Kauffman Stadium and reported no problems with his ailing back.

"It felt good," Chen said. "Really good. The last three days, it really got better, significantly better."

Chen said he threw all his pitches during the workout.

"I'm a little rusty, but I can make adjustments. I should be OK," he said.

Chen has been out since April 25, and left-hander Danny Duffy has taken over his spot in the starting rotation. As yet, there's been no decision on when Chen might go to the Minors on an injury rehabilitation assignment.

"They don't want to get ahead of themselves," Chen said.