Yusei Kikuchi begins minor‑league rehab, eyes August return to Angels

Japanese right‑hander Yusei Kikuchi, 35, of the Los Angeles Angels, started a rehabilitation appearance in the Angels’ Single‑A affiliate on July 31 (Japan time Aug 1) after missing most of the season with left‑shoulder inflammation. The team expects him to make up to three minor‑league outings before a possible mid‑August return to the major‑league rotation.

In his first rehab start he lasted three innings, surrendered six runs (four earned), six hits including three home runs, and struck out five. The outing followed a season limited to seven appearances, during which he posted a 5.81 ERA. Kikuchi is under a three‑year, $63 million contract that runs through next season, and his performance will be closely watched as the Angels look to stabilize a rotation plagued by injuries.