Lewis aims to return to rotation by September

ARLINGTON — The Rangers have a plan to get pitcher Colby Lewis back into the rotation by the first week of September.

Lewis still has some hurdles to overcome, but he remains optimistic after Saturday’s 30-pitch bullpen session at Globe Life Park.

“I threw breaking balls and sliders and everything felt great,” Lewis said.

The next step will be a 40-pitch bullpen on Tuesday, in which Lewis will “bump up the energy level.” Then he will throw live batting practice next weekend during the Rangers’ three-game series with the Rays at Tropicana Field.

If Lewis gets through those two sessions, the next step would be a rehabilitation assignment in the Minor Leagues with his first start scheduled for Aug. 24. The Rangers are hoping Lewis will need just two rehab starts before being ready to return to the rotation.

Lewis, on the 60-day disabled list because of a torn muscle in the back of his right shoulder, has not pitched since June 21. Prior to that, he was 6-1 with a 3.21 ERA in 15 starts and getting All-Star consideration.

“Just continue what I’ve been doing,” Lewis said. “Keep the same effort level, focus and intensity. I was making pitches, getting quick outs and going deep into games. That has always been my M.O.

“It’s a matter of getting the feel back, eating up innings, saving the bullpen in September, keep the lead we have and hitting October.”

Derek Holland, on the 60-day disabled list because of inflammation in his left shoulder, is scheduled to make his third rehab start on Monday for …

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