Stanton to begin rehab assignment; targeting Friday return

Giancarlo Stanton is inching closer to a return.

The Miami Marlins outfielder is set to take his first step towards a major-league return - which is set for Friday - when he makes a Class-A rehab start Tuesday.

"I think it's good that he's progressed to this point," Marlins manager Dan Jennings told reporters. "If he passes this test, then hopefully we will see him in the lineup for our next series after this one."

Stanton has been on the shelf since breaking the hamate bone in his left hand on June 26, which eventually required surgery.

The Marlins have taken their time with the slugger, who's recovered at a slower-than-anticipated pace, but they don't want their franchise player to aggravate the injury.

"We'll be smart. Giancarlo is pretty good to tell you how he feels," said Jennings. "If he needs a day here and there, then we need to be wise about it, and let him get back to game speed."

Prior to the injury, Stanton was hitting .265/.346/.952 with 27 home runs and 67 RBIs.