Miami Marlins ace Jose Fernandez threw off a mound Sunday morning for the first time in almost a year.
Fernandez, who underwent Tommy John surgery May 16, 2014, after just eight starts, tossed 15 pitches -- all fastballs -- to bullpen coordinator Jeff Urguelles, according to media in Jupiter. He also did 10 warmup pitches.
His next bullpen session will be Thursday. Fernandez told reporters his velocity was at 50 to 55 percent.
"Being the first one, I was a little nervous, but it was great," Fernandez said. "It's huge. I mean, after almost nine and a half months, getting on the mound again, it feels great. It's where I belong and that's what I love to do, but it's just another step toward a goal. Doesn't mean we're going to rush anything."
The 22-year-old had been playing catch up to 150 feet and throwing off flat ground with his fastball and breaking pitch.
When pitchers and catchers reported for spring training last week, Fernandez said July 16 remains the target return date. Miami visits Philadelphia the day after to open the second half of the season.
Over the offseason, the Marlins acquired right-handers Mat Latos and Dan Haren via trade to help the rotation's depth.
"He wanted to throw it at 6:30 this morning," pitching coach Chuck Hernandez said. "He was probably more nervous than his first start against the Mets (in 2013). I could just see the excitement level and all that, but he's been very mature about it. He understands we have a long road and a long process and there's not going to be anything that changes it or interrupts it as long as everything continues to go good."
