What It Means:

Zimmermann is scheduled for one more rehab start on Monday, so assuming he doesn't have any setbacks, he should be ready to pitch on regular rest this weekend against the Orioles. He last pitched on August 4, but lasted only 1 2/3 innings before leaving with this lat injury. He has pitched only once in the majors since June 30 due to both lat and neck strains.

Zimmermann owns a 4.44 ERA and a 4.70 xFIP in 97 1/3 innings this season, both of which are career-worst marks in qualified years. Injuries have played a role, but this is a year to forget for Zimmermann. His strikeout rate has plummeted this season to only 14.6 percent, also a career-worst.