The Tampa Bay Rays are coming closer to getting a key piece of their lineup back. Kevin Kiermaier is expected to begin his rehab assignment with the Charlotte Stone Crabs in the next day or so, leading to a potential return to the Rays lineup this weekend.
Right now, the plan is for Kiermaier to get approximately 20 at bats before being activated. In theory, this should determine whether or not his hip, and his back, are healthy enough to return to the lineup. It will also be interesting to watch Kiermaier in the field during his rehab to see if his injuries hinder his defense.