Yusei Kikuchi (shoulder) faced hitters on Tuesday in a 34-pitch live batting practice session.

Kikuchi should be ready to head out on a minor league rehab assignment fairly soon. The 35-year-old southpaw has been working his way back from shoulder inflammation that sent him to the injured list back in early May. He opted for the rest-and-rehabilitation route instead of season-ending surgery. There’s a chance he’s back at some point in mid-to-late August.