The San Diego Padres got a boost today, as both Andrew Cashner and Anthony Bass threw bullpen session, according to Corey Brock of MLB.com.

From Padres manager Bud Black:

"Any time you clear a hurdle and get back on the mound ... it really lifts a player up. When you hit the mound and feel good, you feel better about what's happening."

Cashner, who was acquired this offseason from the Chicago Cubs for Anthony Rizzo, began the year in the bullpen but was eventually converted back into a starter. The 25-year old had a 3.44 ERA and 1.28 WHIP with 11 K/9 before a strained lat put him on the disabled list on July 4.

Bass, 24, was 2-7 with a 4.70 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 7.7 K/9. The right-hander has been on the disabled list since June 21 due to shoulder inflammation.

The Friars could get some more good news, as Cory Luebke is expected to start a throwing program next week. Even if things go well, however, the 27-year-old lefty will be out until sometime around the middle of next season.

The Padres signed Luebke to a four-year contract extension in March and he underwent season-ending Tommy John surgery in May. In his first full season, Luebke posted a 3.29 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 3.50 strikeout-to-walk ratio.