Weaver to make rehab start Thursday

Angels starter Jered Weaver is set to make a rehab start for Class A Advanced Inland Empire on Thursday, perhaps his final step before being activated from the disabled list.

Weaver has been on the DL with inflammation in his left hip since June 21. The 32-year-old right-hander has since moved past the injury, but he's still sorting through the mechanics in his delivery.

After a simulated game at Angel Stadium on Tuesday, Weaver said: "Mechanically, something's just a click off. I'm just trying to get back to where I know I can be. It's getting close. I've had good days and bad days; I just need to get more consistent."

Weaver began the year 0-4 with a 6.29 ERA before posting a 1.98 ERA over a five-start stretch in May. He then navigated through June with a 6.58 ERA before getting placed on the shelf. The three-time All-Star is 4-8 with a 4.75 ERA on the season, while giving up a career-high 1.5 home runs per nine innings.

When Weaver does return -- perhaps early next week -- the Angels may choose to send Matt Shoemaker to the bullpen, even though the 28-year-old right-hander has given up just seven runs in his last 24 1/3 innings.

First pitch for Weaver's rehab start at San Manuel Stadium in San Bernardino, Calif., is on Thursday is 7:05 p.m. PT.