Braves manager Brian Snitker announced on Wednesday that injured starting pitcher Chris Sale will throw batting practice on Thursday. Sale, the reigning NL Cy Young winner, fractured his ribs diving to preserve a complete-game shutout against the New York Mets on June 18.

The Atlanta Braves lefty is set to take another major step in his recovery, while Snitker gave insight on a potential rehab assignment

Atlanta Braves left-hander Chris Sale (ribs) will make his first minor-league rehab start on Tuesday with Triple-A Gwinnett, according to Gabe Burns of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Sale came out of his 30-pitch simulated game on Thursday feeling good and has been cleared to take the next step