ATLANTA -- Matt Kemp is progressing toward a return to the Braves' lineup.
The veteran outfielder has been sidelined since July 29 with a right hamstring strain, but has been cleared to resume baseball activities. However, Braves manager Brian Snitker said that Kemp has a few hurdles to clear before he is fully back.
"He was in there doing all his exercises and is scheduled to start amping up the running progression," Snitker said. "He is also getting back into hitting as well."
Kemp is batting .290 with 14 homers and 48 RBIs in 88 games this season. This is his third time on the 10-day disabled list with a hamstring strain.
The Braves have used Matt Adams and Danny Santana in left field to fill Kemp's void in the lineup. Lane Adams and Jace Peterson are also available options, off the bench, to play left field if needed.
Dickey pushed back
With the Braves having two off-days this week, Snitker decided to push R.A. Dickey's scheduled start to Sunday against the Cardinals in St. Louis.
Dickey was feeling a little sore following his last start against the Marlins and has been given a couple of extra days to rest.
"It is a good opportunity to give him a couple of days to let his body get back," Snitker said.
The Braves will use a projected rotation of Mike Foltynewicz, Lucas Sims and Dickey for the series against the Cardinals. Dickey is 7-7 with a 4.03 ERA in 22 starts this season.
Dickey has pitched eight career games against the Cardinals, going 3-1 with a 4.38 ERA. His last start at Busch Stadium was in 2012, when he allowed two runs in 6 2/3 innings pitched as a member of the Mets.