For the first time since June 7, Brad Lidge threw off a mound.

Lidge tested out his right knee in a bullpen session prior to Tuesday night's game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Citizens Bank Park. The closer, placed on the disabled list a week ago, reported no pain.

He'll give it a go again in the 'pen Thursday, and barring a setback, could be sent out on a rehab assignment this weekend.

Lidge, who is eligible to return a week from today (next Tuesday in Tampa), said he is shooting to be ready at some point during that series against the Rays... but if he needs extra time, he could join the Phils at another point during the road trip.

But as long as his rested knee responds as it did today, he shouldn't need much more than the 15-day disabled list trip to get back into a major league game.

In the meantime, Ryan Madson will continue to hold down the fort in the closer's role.