Jul 12, 2005 2:29 AM EST

Yankees pitcher Kevin Brown threw off a mound Monday for the first time since being sidelined by a back injury last month.

Brown, who has chronic back trouble, went on the disabled list for the 13th time in his career June 18. He left a game three days earlier against Pittsburgh because of back spasms.

The right-hander's throwing session lasted 10 minutes. The Yankees are hopeful Brown could rejoin the rotation next week.

Brown started the season on the DL because of a back strain, was activated April 17 and went 5-6 with a 5.48 ERA.

Via ESPN