CLEARWATER, Fla. — Pedro Martinez has taken a “really big step” forward after throwing 64 pitches over four innings in a simulated game.

The Philadelphia Phillies’ new right-hander faced hitters for the first time in 11 days on Tuesday and afterwards said he was excited about the outing.
The 37-year-old Martinez, who last week signed a one-year, $1 million contract with the Phillies, is on the 15-day disabled list with a shoulder strain. He will throw off a bullpen mound Thursday, and if that goes well, will have another simulated game or pitch in a minor league game Sunday.