Mariners' Tom Wilhelmsen: Expected to return soon

Wilhelmsen (back) threw a simulated inning Thursday, Bob Dutton of the Tacoma News Tribune reports.

Analysis:

Wilhelmsen was pleased with his pitch quality and didn't feel any pain during Thursday's workout. Following Thursday's throwing session, it seems likely that the 32-year-old reliever will be coming off the DL in the near future. Prior to being placed on the disabled list on Aug. 27, Wilhelmsen had built a hefty 7.02 ERA and 1.71 WHIP over 43 games.