Los Angeles Dodgers rookie right-hander Roki Sasaki has been sidelined since May 9 with a shoulder impingement. With his absence coming up on three months, though, Sasaki appears to be making significant progress toward a return, and a possible change in role, at least for the playoffs, could be in the plans.

Pain-free now after a shoulder impingement, Sasaki has a simulated game later this week with a minor league rehab start planned for next week. When he is done rehabbing, the Dodgers will face

Sasaki is expected to face hitters for 3 simulated innings on Friday, then head out on a minor-league rehab assignment.