Surprise, Ariz. ? Kansas City Royals catcher Jason Kendall began a light throwing program Wednesday as he starts his return from major shoulder surgery.

Kendall said he intends to be behind the plate on opening day. Royals manager Ned Yost said that was a bit optimistic.

The 36-year-old Kendall received the OK to start tossing and swinging the bat a day after being examined by a doctor in Los Angeles. He had extensive tears in his rotator cuff and had surgery in September.

Kendall hit .256 in 118 games last season. He has caught 2,025 games, fifth most in major league history.