Papelbon (ribs) said he felt great after throwing 30 pitches in a simulated game Wednesday, Jamal Collier of MLB.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

This is good news for the Nationals as Papelbon appears to be getting close to full strength. The 35-year-old will now go to Double-A Harrisburg to throw back-to-back days before making his return in early July. Papelbon has saved 16 games in 18 chances this season and will get back to closing games once he rejoins the team.