ST. PETERSBURG (620 WDAE) -- When his turn in the rotation comes up next week, Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Jake Odorizzi says he's ready to slide back into his spot.
Odorizzi, who pitched three innings for the Rays Florida State League affiliate, the Charlotte Stone Crabs, Friday in Dunedin, declared himself ready to return to the team before Saturday's middle game against the Milwaukee Brewers, a sentiment echoed by his manager, Kevin Cash.
"His outing was good," Cash said before Saturday's game. "He said he felt great, which is a good sign. He hasn't felt that good in a long time. He'll start game two [Wednesday] against Boston."
Odorizzi had gone 6-4 with a 4.48 ERA in 18 starts this year before going on the disabled list on July 16 with a lower back strain. He will take the place in the rotation of left-hander Blake Snell, who was optioned back to Triple-A Durham after his start Thursday in Houston.