Nationals' Jonathan Papelbon: Hoping to begin rehab assignment Monday

Papelbon is hoping to start a rehab assignment Monday, William Ladson of MLB.com reports.

Analysis:

Papelbon, sidelined since June 13 with rib soreness, threw a 40-pitch bullpen session Saturday and is hoping to take the next step Monday. If all goes well this upcoming week, the 35-year-old should return to the Nationals' bullpen before the All-Star break.