The injury-riddled Red Sox are getting close to one of their key contributors making a return to the roster.

Barring setbacks, outfielder Kiké Hernandez -- who has been on the injured list since June 8 and has experienced multiple delays during his return -- is expected to return to the Red Sox early next week. The 30-year-old will play rehab games on Friday and Saturday and rest on Sunday before the team determines if he's ready to return.