Ryan Madson injury: Angels closer throws off mound

Los Angeles Angels closer Ryan Madson threw off a mound for the first time in six weeks during yesterday's 20-pitch bullpen session, according to Kevin Baxter of The Los Angeles Times.

Following his session, Madson told reporters that he only threw fastballs at about half speed. It was a "nice and easy" exercise, as he indicated it was more important for him to simply "get back up on the hill."

Madson continues to recover from Tommy John surgery that caused him to miss the entire 2012 season. Even after missing the year due to a significant elbow injury, Los Angeles signed the right-hander to a one-year contract with a base salary of $3.25 million. Madson will have an opportunity to earn an additional $2.5 million in roster bonuses and another $1 million based on the number of games he finishes this season.

Prior to signing with the Cincinnati Reds last offseason, Madson was a long-time late-inning arm for the Philadelphia Phillies. After spending several seasons as the team's setup man, Madson slid into the role of closer in 2011. That year he maintained an ERA of 2.37 while compiling 32 saves over 62 appearances.

Over nine seasons in the majors, Madson owns a career ERA of 3.59 with a strikeout-to-walk ratio (SO/BB) of 2.86. From 2009-11 he posted a 2.78 ERA with 4 SO/BB.