Pablo Lopez to throw live batting practice as he works towards return

Twins ace Pablo Lopez is set to take a big step towards his return later this season. According to multiple reports, the 29-year-old righty will throw two innings in a simulated game on Friday ahead of the Twins' game against the Tigers at Target Field.

Lopez has been out since early June after suffering a strained muscle in his throwing shoulder. Before his injury, Lopez was 5-3 with a 2.82 ERA while recording 61 strikeouts in 60 2/3 innings.

With a roster that just underwent an unprecedented fire sale at the trade deadline, with the front office seemingly calling it on the season, it wouldn't be a surprise if Lopez just shut it down for the remainder of the season. However, that is not something Lopez wants to do.

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"I want to do it," Lopez told assembled media on Thursday. "I want to be able to tell myself I was able to come back from this injury and pitch and perform at the level I know I can perform."

The aim appears to get Lopez back in early September, which would give the for All-Star a handful of starts before the season ends. He has already thrown several bullpen sessions, as well as a single simulated inning without a batter.

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