Mattingly uncertain when Kemp will be activated

WASHINGTON -- Dodgers center fielder Matt Kemp took another step toward coming off the disabled list on Sunday, but manager Don Mattingly wasn't ready to commit to that move before Saturday's game against the Nationals.

For the second straight day, Kemp faced teammate Ted Lilly, who is also on the disabled list, in a simulated game. The two squared off in a series of at-bats, with coaches giving them different situations, such as having runners on second and third with one out and the infield in. Kemp hit a pair of home runs against the left-hander.

Kemp has been out since July 5, when he irritated the AC joint in his left shoulder while taking a swing. Mattingly said he will have to talk to his medical staff before making a final decision.

"He's gonna be eligible for [Sunday], but I'm not sure what we're doing yet," Mattingly said.

As for Lilly, he will throw a longer simulated game while the team is in Toronto next week

"Ted was OK, back-to-back [days] and he seemed the same today as yesterday," Mattingly said. "He was OK, his location was OK, threw a couple good breaking balls and a couple sloppy breaking balls."