David Price took another step toward rejoining the Rays, throwing a simulated game on Thursday for the first time since being sidelined May 16 because of a strained left triceps.

Price threw 54 pitches over three innings.

The left-hander is expected to start a minor league rehab assignment next week and could return to the majors in late June or early July.

"I felt great," Price said. "I'm kind of getting the results that I'm expecting out there right now. It's definitely good to go out there and feel as good as I am right now. I guess it's a sigh of relief."