WASHINGTON -- A pair of Nationals completed rehab assignments at Class A Advanced Potomac on Sunday. Right-hander Jeremy Hellickson started and threw 83 pitches in 4 2/3 innings, while Brandon Kintzler tossed a scoreless sixth with a strikeout.
Both players were expected to join the Nationals at Nationals Park for evaluation before the team departs for St. Petersburg after Sunday night's series finale against the Phillies.
Hellickson gave up 11 earned runs on nine hits with three walks, but his rough line did not leave manager Dave Martinez concerned.
"I'm more concerned about the way he feels," Martinez said. "And we'll go from there."
Both players were expected to only need one rehab outing before they were ready to return. Kintzler, who has been on the disabled list since June 10 with a right forearm flexor strain, could be activated as soon as Monday against the Rays to put the Nationals' bullpen at full strength for the first time since the club acquired Kelvin Herrera from the Royals.
And Hellickson -- sidelined since June 5 with a right hamstring strain -- should be on track to rejoin the Nationals' rotation through the next turn. Sunday's starter, right-hander Jefry Rodriguez, has been Hellickson's replacement.