Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen allows 3 runs in rehab outing

Los Angeles Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen, who is on the disabled list while recovering from foot surgery, allowed three runs in just 2/3 of an inning during a rehab outing Wednesday but says he's ready to return to the team.

Jansen, who has been sidelined since mid-February after undergoing surgery during spring training to remove a growth from his left foot, threw 25 pitches and gave up a home run in his third rehab appearance for Class A Rancho Cucamonga.

"I feel like I'm ready," Jansen told reporters. "For next week? Yeah, I'm ready to come back next week."

Dodgers manager Don Mattingly, however, isn't being that bold when it comes to setting a timetable for Jansen's return.

"That's what they all say," Mattingly said. "Nobody wants to play minor league rehab games."

Jansen, 27, saved 44 games last season and has saved 97 with a 2.30 ERA and 13.5 strikeouts per nine innings over the past three seasons, establishing himself as one of the best closers in baseball. He was also the lone trusted reliever by the time the Dodgers reached the postseason in October.

He will have some company with Rancho Cucamonga on Thursday, as outfielder Yasiel Puig, who is on the 15-day DL with a hamstring injury, is expected to be the designated hitter against Visalia.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.