Hughes to start throwing program Thursday

NEW YORK (AP) -- Yankees pitcher Phil Hughes plans to start throwing on flat ground Thursday.

Hughes had a cortisone shot about two weeks ago to relieve discomfort in his right shoulder. Tests failed to detect any serious ailments.

"I'm excited to get going," he said Tuesday. "Hopefully it isn't an issue."

Hughes hasn't pitched since April 14 after experiencing a lack of velocity in his first three starts, when he was 0-1 with a 13.94 ERA. He is not expected back for six to eight weeks at the earliest.

Hughes said he had the shot because of inflammation in muscles. He said the shot provided relief.

"You get so used to little discomforts here and there," he said.

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