Apr 12, 2010 6:35 AM EST

Mariners pitcher Cliff Lee threw 45 pitches off the bullpen mound before Sunday's game against the Rangers.

Seattle manager Don Wakamatsu said he was encouraged by what he saw from Lee, who is on the 15-day disabled list with an abdominal strain.

Lee isn't expected to return until May.

He will throw a 60-pitch bullpen session on Tuesday and a 35-40 pitch simulated game on Friday.

Via ESPN