SEATTLE

-- Though there were only two minor leaguers in an otherwise empty stadium and the environment was very controlled for Yu Darvish's first turn to face hitters Wednesday, pitching coach Doug Brocail considered it the equivalent of a first rehab start.

And it may help quicken Darvish's return.

Brocail said when Darvish goes out on a rehab, the Rangers are not wedded to the six-start maximum over the 30-day assignment. With Darvish expected to throw two more live batting practice sessions of 45 and 60 pitches on Sunday and next Thursday, he could begin a rehab assignment on April 25 and throw three innings. If he goes as few as three rehab starts, he could return as early as May 11 for a homestand finale against the Chicago White Sox. If he goes four starts, May 16 at Oakland may be more likely and if he goes five, May 21 at Houston might be the date.

"He'll tell us when he's ready," Brocail said without acknowledging a specific target date for Darvish's return. "He barely broke a sweat [Wednesday]. I'm a little concerned over whether we're letting him go enough or if we are holding him back at all. I saw the video and I saw some really good sliders. The changeup and curve were both good. How he's utilizing his pitches will tell us."

Darvish's fastball was not clocked Wednesday, but registered at 92-94 mph during a late-spring bullpen session. He faced minor leaguers Isaiah Kiner-Falefa and Joe Jackson after doing a regular pre-game warmup routine with about 45 pitches in the bullpen. He then threw 30 pitches over two "innings."