Twins' Pablo Lopez Scheduled for Rehab Start Following Shoulder Injury

What's Happening?

Pablo Lopez, a pitcher for the Minnesota Twins, is set to make his first rehab start on Thursday for Triple-A St. Paul. Lopez has been recovering from a Grade 2 teres major strain, which has kept him out of play since June 5. He began throwing live batting practice last week and has not experienced any setbacks in his recovery process. The Twins have cleared him to begin a rehab assignment, indicating progress in his recovery. Lopez's return to the mound is a crucial step in his rehabilitation, and he may require additional rehab starts before being activated from the 60-day injured list.

Why It's Important?

Lopez's return is significant for the Minnesota Twins as they look to strengthen their pitching roster. His absence since early June has impacted the team's performance, and his recovery could bolster their chances in upcoming games. The successful rehabilitation of Lopez is crucial for the Twins, who rely on his pitching skills to enhance their competitive edge. His return could also influence the team's strategy and rotation, providing more options for the coaching staff. The outcome of his rehab starts will be closely monitored by the team and fans alike.

What's Next?

Following his initial rehab start, Lopez may need additional outings to ensure he is fully prepared for major league play. The Twins will assess his performance and recovery progress to determine when he can be activated from the injured list. His return to the major league roster will depend on his ability to demonstrate readiness and effectiveness during these rehab assignments. The team will likely make decisions based on his health and performance metrics, aiming to reintegrate him into the lineup as soon as he is deemed fit.