Twins third baseman Royce Lewis, who hasn't played since March 16 due to a hamstring strain, will begin an injury rehab assignment Friday at Triple-A St. Paul.

If Lewis arrives at the park in good shape Thursday, he potentially could begin a rehab assignment as soon as Friday.

Over the past few days, hope and excitement around Royce Lewis, erstwhile top prospect and current oft-injured superstar-in-waiting, has grown. The first real sign that his return may be imminent came before the Tuesday night game against the White Sox, when Lewis was spotted doing sprints.