Mariners' George Kirby: Slated for live BP

Kirby (shoulder) will throw a live batting practice Monday, Daniel Kramer of MLB.com reports.

Kirby will face live hitters for the first time since being shut down due to right shoulder inflammation March 7. The right-hander will need a substantial build up before making his return to the Mariners' rotation, but Monday's session is a substantial step in his recovery. Kirby produced a 3.53 ERA and 1.07 WHIP with a career-high 179 strikeouts over 191 innings in 33 starts last season.