Masahiro Tanaka threw five scoreless innings in a simulated game against minor leaguers on Monday as he continued his effort to return to the New York Yankees this season.

He is recovering from a small ligament tear in his right elbow.

"I do feel I'm closer to being game-ready," Tanaka said through his translator.

A decision on whether Tanaka will pitch on a Major League mound this weekend likely won't be made until the Yankees know how his arm reacts to Monday's session.

"The next step, it is very possible he could be in a game for us," Joe Girardi said. "To be fair, we have to see how he is tomorrow."