TORONTO -- Adam Warren threw 25 pitches in the bullpen on Saturday afternoon at Rogers Centre, another encouraging step as the Yankees' right-hander aims to rejoin the active roster before the end of the regular season.
Warren has not pitched since Sept. 1 due to lower back spasms, but he said that he feels almost ready to get back on the mound. Yanks manager Joe Girardi said that he expects Warren to be activated after tossing a simulated game on Tuesday at Yankee Stadium.
"I felt better once I started throwing, much quicker than I thought I would," Warren said. "I got my arm back in shape. I'm worried about just getting my reps on the mound and getting back out there."
With the Yankees on the cusp of postseason play, Warren figures to be a welcome addition to a power bullpen anchored by Albertin Chapman, Dellin Betances, Player Page for David Robertson, Chad Green and Tommy Kahnle. The 30-year-old is 3-2 with a 2.40 ERA in 45 appearances this season.
"I think it ranks right up there with them, how much depth we have down there in terms of power arms," Warren said. "Basically everybody can go multiple innings. I can take a little burden off these guys, and just whenever they need me, I'm excited to be a part of it."
Bombers bits
Outfielder Aaron Hicks (left oblique strain) took five at-bats in simulated action on Saturday morning at the Yankees' player development complex in Tampa, Fla., and he reported no issues. Hicks is expected to rejoin the Yankees during the upcoming homestand.