Injured Rays DH Pat Burrell and SS Jason Bartlett nearing return

Burrell and Bartlett nearing return

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Injured Tampa Bay Rays designated hitter Pat Burrell could rejoin the team this weekend and shortstop Jason Bartlett may be back early next week.

Burrell, out since May 11 with a neck strain, worked out before Wednesday night’s game against the Los Angeles Angels. He will join Single-A Charlotte on Thursday after playing Monday and Tuesday for Double-A Montgomery.

Bartlett, placed on the 15-day disabled list May 26 due to a sprained left ankle, ran the bases on Wednesday. Tampa Bay manager Joe Maddon said Bartlett could play in a minor league game by this weekend.

Scott Kazmir, on the DL with a strained right quadricpes and is also refining his mechanics, is scheduled to pitch in a three-inning simulated game Friday.