Jepsen 'close' to returning to Angels bullpen

KANSAS CITY -- The Angels could be on the verge of getting right-hander Kevin Jepsen back in the bullpen.

"He's close," manager Mike Scioscia said, adding that Jepsen will make another rehab appearance this week.

Jepsen has been on the disabled list for more than five weeks because of a right shoulder strain. He made his second Minor League rehab appearance on Wednesday for Salt Lake and surrendered three runs, including two homers. Jepsen threw 19 pitches in his one inning.

Jepsen pitched just 3 2/3 innings prior to the injury, allowing five hits and four earned runs with six strikeouts and one walk.