Kemp takes batting practice for first time since injury
Dodgers star eligible to return Tuesday, but yet to begin running on left ankle
ST. LOUIS -- Matt Kemp took another step toward a return Wednesday, taking batting practice for the first time in his rehab from a sprained left ankle, but the most significant obstacle to his recovery remains.
While eligible to come off the 15-day disabled list Tuesday, Kemp has yet to begin running on his ankle.
"It felt good to get back out there and hit a little bit," Kemp said. "I felt like a real baseball player. It's been tough. Play a little bit, don't play, out for a while, come back. You know, it's a start. It's better than where I was."
Kemp said the swelling is nearly gone, but couldn't provide a timetable for his return.
"I can't give you too much because I know just about the same as ya'll," he said. "My body is the person that's going to tell me whenever I'm ready to start running."