Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Michael Kopech began his rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City Thursday, an indication the right-hander is set to return soon.
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Nevertheless, Kopech’s 23-pitch outing was less than ideal as he walked all five batters he faced. He threw just three strikes and touched up to 98 mph.
Kopech began the season on the injured list with right forearm inflammation after pitching at what he called 60 percent health through October. He suffered multiple setbacks in his recovery this spring, but the rehab assignment — while not picturesque — signals Kopech should be back in the Dodgers bullpen soon.