" The happiest player in the clubhouse Thursday was Rich Harden, who threw a 58-pitch bullpen session. He said he feels better with his fastball and mechanics than he has at any point since joining the team.

Harden, on the disabled list since June 12 with a strained left gluteus muscle, threw only fastballs but believes it is a better pitch that will make his off-speed stuff more effective.

He said he anticipates going out for a rehab assignment after one more bullpen session, which will include his change-up and slider. "