"After getting Brandon Webb on a mound for the first time since the opening day of camp, the Rangers feel it's not a matter of if he'll be ready to pitch, but when.

The likelihood, however, remains that when won't come until sometime after the season begins.

After a handful of arm-strengthening "long-toss" sessions, Webb got back up on the mound Sunday morning. He threw approximately 28 pitches, including several changeups. While his location was rusty, he said he noticed significant change in his arm strength from any point since he had shoulder surgery 18 months ago.

"I haven't had many sessions like this," Webb said. "It was a good day. There were no issues, except the location. I just can remember many times when I went out and threw and my arm felt great.""