Phillies' Ranger Suarez: Throws bullpen session

Suarez (back) threw a 36-pitch bullpen session Thursday, Lochlann March of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Suarez has been out since July 27 due to lower-back soreness, but he has been making steady progress in his recovery. Manager Rob Thomson described Thursday's session as having gone "extremely well," but the left-hander isn't expected to be ready to return until after the team's upcoming homestand ending Aug. 18. The next step in the recovery process for Suarez will be throwing live batting practice, while he could also be sent on a rehab assignment.