Polanco to begin rehab Wednesday

MIAMI — Placido Polanco will begin an official rehab assignment Wednesday with single-A Clearwater. The Phillies expect to activate him Monday, if all goes well in the minor-league games.

Polanco, disabled since July 23 with back inflammation, is scheduled to play five or six innings at third base Wednesday. He will serve as designated hitter Friday and play close to a full game at third Saturday.

"When he joins us," Manuel said, "we're going to see if we can activate him."

Polanco is not expected to play every day upon his return, instead splitting time with Kevin Frandsen.

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