Yusei Kikuchi begins rehab start as Angels anticipate Ben Joyce's return

Yusei Kikuchi made his first rehab start for the Los Angeles Angels at Rancho Cucamonga on August 1. He allowed six runs, four earned, in three innings while striking out five batters. Kikuchi faced a technical issue with a PitchCom device but managed to adapt his signals. He reported feeling physically fine and is expected to make at least two more rehab appearances before rejoining the Angels. Meanwhile, pitcher Ben Joyce is also nearing a return after allowing two runs in his third relief outing with Salt Lake this week.

• 2:02 AMYahoo Sports — Kikuchi Makes Rehab Start, Joyce Also Close To Returning