Rolen expected to return Monday

Scott Rolen cranked a 438-foot homer in a rehab appearance Saturday for Triple-A Louisville, a strong indication that Rolen appears ready to rejoin the Reds.

Third baseman Rolen is expected to meet the team in Cleveland and possibly be activated for Monday night’s game. Rolen has been on the disabled list since May 12 with a strained left shoulder. In two rehab games forLouisville this weekend, Rolen went 2-for-6 with a homer and three RBI.

Reds manager Dusty Baker was pleased to hear of Rolen’s progress, but wants to know the conditions of Rolen’s shoulder, back and legs before passing judgment.

“The thing about when you haven’t played, from bending up and down and bending over for nine innings, that’s