Hisashi Iwakuma, back in Japan for the first time since 2011, threw his third bullpen in a week on Sunday at the Yomiuri Giants’ minor league facility in Kawasaki, across the river from Tokyo.

The 38-year-old threw 40 pitches but not at full strength as he was focusing on his mechanics after having shoulder trouble in February. Iwakuma had shoulder surgery in September 2017

“I feel strong enough so I wanted to see how it felt throwing with a little less effort. My feel for my pitching form largely matched how I was throwing,” he said. “I think I’m moving forward, and now I need to take the next step.”

Iwakuma threw his first bullpen since camp on May 14.

You can see the original Japanese language Nikkan Sports report HERE.