Matt Kemp isn’t comfortable at bat, might not return Monday

After center fielder Matt Kemp went hitless in his first eight minor league at-bats -- with one ball out of the infield -- Dodgers Manager Don Mattingly said Kemp might be asked to continue his rehabilitation assignment beyond Sunday.

Kemp is expected to be the designated hitter for Class-A Rancho Cucamonga on Saturday and Sunday. Mattingly said Kemp has not reported any discomfort in his injured left ankle.

“Baseball-wise, he isn’t comfortable yet,” Mattingly said. “I don’t think we’re worried about center field. His timing doesn’t sound very good yet.”

Kemp has not played since he sprained the ankle July 21. Mattingly said Kemp would not want to return until he can contribute and said the minor league struggles were not overly concerning given his prolonged layoff.

“It’s hard to jump in there at 94-95 [mph] when you haven’t seen it regularly,” Mattingly said.

Kemp has played in 62 of the Dodgers’ first 135 games. He is batting .263 with five home runs.