Cole Hamels throws 81 pitches in rehab outing

Texas Rangers starting pitcher Cole Hamels made his second -- and what is likely his last — rehab start for AA Frisco today. Hamels, on the disabled list with an strained oblique, went 5 ²⁄₃ IP, striking out 5, walking 2, giving up 2 hits, and allowing a single run over 81 pitches.

Our friend Tepid, who is at the game, says Hamels is “good to go,” and he appears likely to be activated and make his next appearance in a major league game early next week.

With Hamels and Andrew Cashner both due back next week, the Rangers will have their rotation at full strength for the first time this season. We now just need to cross our fingers and hope that everyone stays healthy and productive for a while...