SAN FRANCISCO — Oliver Perez‘s comeback trail began today when the struggling left-hander threw three innings against minor-league competition in extended spring training in Florida. Perez did not allow a run while walking four and striking out seven. He threw 56 pitches, and Brian Schneider — who is also on the DL — served as Perez’s catcher.

Perez went on the DL last week with what the Mets listed as patella tendinitis in his right knee. Of course, Perez’s 9.97 ERA in his first five starts and subsequent removal from the rotation might have had something to do with it, too.

The only throwing Perez had done before today was in a pair of bullpen sessions earlier this week.