George Springer could soon be back in the Toronto Blue Jays lineup.
The outfielder was cleared to return from a concussion and will begin a rehab stint in triple-A on Thursday, manager John Schneider told reporters Wednesday.
Springer will likely appear as designated hitter for the Buffalo Bisons, and could get one additional game in the outfield before returning to the big-league club.
The Blue Jays wrap a three-game series with the Chicago Cubs on Thursday before hosting the Texas Rangers for a weekend set starting Friday.
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Springer, who has been sidelined since being hit in the head by a pitch on July 28, was back doing baseball activities with the Blue Jays on Tuesday, Schneider said.
The 35-year-old was placed on the seven-day concussion IL on Aug. 1.
Springer was then sent down to Buffalo for what was supposed to be a brief rehab stint, but he has yet to clear protocols for return to play.
Over 101 games, Springer has enjoyed a resurgent year, slashing .291/.383/.506 with 18 home runs and 57 RBIs.
