The Devil Rays know better than to set firm timetables regarding Rocco Baldelli's return from injury, and Baldelli is right there with them. So even though the news is good as Baldelli gets set to return from three months on the shelf with a hamstring injury, it's best to deal only in the present and immediate future.
Hours before Saturday's game, Baldelli was at Tropicana Field running through defensive drills, taking batting practice and running sprints in the outfield with manager Joe Maddon and trainer Ron Porterfield looking on. Monday, he'll join Single-A Vero Beach for either four or five games, alternating between DH and center field before moving up to Durham.
Everything after that is to be determined, but the Rays expect Baldelli to be back in some capacity in September.
Baldelli Ready For Rehab Stint





