Walden throws, could return to 'pen next week

NEW YORK -- Jordan Walden completed a pain-free bullpen session at Citi Field on Friday afternoon. This marked the first time the Braves reliever threw off a mound since being placed on the disabled list with right shoulder inflammation last week.

If Walden does not experience any setbacks over the next few days, he could begin a Minor League rehab assignment that could position him to rejoin Atlanta's injury-depleted bullpen at some point next week.

"Everything feels good," Walden said. "I've got to see how I feel tomorrow."

With Eric O'Flaherty lost for the remainder of the season after undergoing Tommy John elbow reconstruction surgery, Walden could eventually team with Luis Avilan to serve as closer Craig Kimbrel's top setup men.

When Walden completed consecutive scoreless appearances against the Nationals on April 29 and May 2, his ERA stood at 1.54 through his first 11 appearances of the season. But as his shoulder started to bother him, the former Angels closer allowed five runs and totaled 1 1/3 innings in the three appearances that followed.