Yoshinobu Yamamoto is set to begin his minor league rehab assignment on Wednesday with Triple-A Oklahoma City at Dell Diamond in Round Rock.
After nearly two months on the injured list, the Los Angeles Dodgers rookie right-hander will throw two innings in his first outing.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced that if all goes well, Yamamoto could make another rehab start before rejoining the major league team.
"The ball was coming out of his hand with a lot of life," Roberts told reporters . "It seems like he's healthy. As long as he recovers well, then we start homing in on the command and all that other stuff."
He recently demonstrated progress by playing catch without any issues and pitching two innings in a simulated game.
Yamamoto had a solid start to the season, boasting a 6-2 record and a 2.92 ERA over 14 starts.
He was placed on the 15-day injured list on June 16 due to a rotator cuff strain, which was later updated to right triceps soreness. This led to his transfer to the 60-day injured list on July 13.
As the Dodgers approach the postseason, Yamamoto's return is crucial. The team is evaluating its pitching options for the playoff rotation, which includes several candidates vying for limited spots.
MLB Network reporter Jon Morosi highlighted the significance of Yamamoto's return, especially as the Dodgers approach the postseason.
"Five starters potentially for four spots in the playoff rotation. That includes (Gavin) Stone, (Clayton) Kershaw, (Jack) Flaherty, and possibly (Tyler) Glasnow. A lot of big decisions ahead, but the key step is that Yamamoto starts tomorrow in the same series that Jacob deGrom pitches for Round Rock tonight."
Yamamoto is focused on his rehab process, aiming to be fully prepared for the playoffs. His last appearance before the injury was a standout performance, where he pitched seven shutout innings against the New York Yankees.
"It's one thing at a time," Yamamoto said after his simulated game. "I'm going to throw some games in September, and then we'll see."
The Dodgers made headlines earlier this season by signing Yamamoto to a record-setting 12-year, $325 million contract, the largest deal ever given to a pitcher in MLB history.
Before joining the Dodgers, he excelled in Japan, winning multiple awards and accolades with the Orix Buffaloes.
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