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.