The Phillies know pitcher Cole Hamels will join the rotation at some point during their series against the Dodgers next week, and they are starting to close in on a specific date for his expected return. Manager Ryne Sandberg told MLB.com he expects Hamels to start Wednesday in Los Angeles, in order to give the team the chance to split Hamels up with fellow lefty Cliff Lee, who pitches Monday.
Hamels has been working his way back from inflammation in his left shoulder, but has looked sharp in recent rehab starts. He will join the team in Colorado during their upcoming series, and will likely be activated from the disabled list Wednesday.