Mariners pitcher James Paxton (lat) threw at a 60-foot distance for seven minutes and will throw off flat ground again on Saturday, according to MLB.com. Paxton is hoping to increase his workload to begin throwing off a mound soon.

"He's improving every day," said manager Lloyd McClendon. "The doctors are pleased with where he is. I'm not sure when he'll throw off the mound, but he's getting close."