Dodgers' Scott Kazmir: To face hitters on side field

Kazmir (hip) will pitch to hitters at the Dodgers' minor league field Thursday, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register reports.

Analysis:

The southpaw is being handled with care as he works his way back following his clean MRI last week. His Opening Day availability remains unknown, especially considering how many options the Dodgers have for their rotation. They may choose to keep him on the disabled list initially and rotate him in at their disposal later.