Brown Sharp in Triple-A Appearance

Kevin Brown took another big step Saturday toward joining the Dodgers’ playoff push, pitching effectively in his first rehabilitation start for triple-A Las Vegas.

Brown, continuing to exceed expectations in recovering from June 11 surgery for a herniated disk in his lower back, worked 3 2/3 innings for the 51s against Memphis at Las Vegas, giving up one hit, one run and walking two with three strikeouts in a 50-pitch performance. He is expected to make one more rehabilitation start before being activated from the disabled list.

“Right now, pain is not an issue. Strength is an issue,” Brown said