Giambi, Raburn contribute during rehab stints

KANSAS CITY -- The Indians appear close to getting back three players currently on the mend.

David Murphy, Jason Giambi and Ryan Raburn -- all on the disabled list -- continue to make progress during their rehab assignments.

Giambi (left knee inflammation) and Raburn (sore right wrist) both contributed to Double-A Akron's 11-3 win over Trenton on Thursday. Raburn collected three hits and three RBIs, while Giambi ripped an RBI double.

Indians manager Terry Francona said that he expected Giambi to sit on Friday night, but he will return to the lineup on Saturday. Raburn is not eligible to return from the DL until Sept. 2.

"He'll keep playing with a day off mixed in," Francona said.

Murphy, who on Aug. 10 was placed on the DL with a sore right side, traveled with the team to Kansas City. Francona entertained the possibility of a rehab stint soon.

"He's doing well," Francona said. "Depending on the Minor League playoffs, stuff like that, he probably will be able to get a few games. It wouldn't surprise me."