Phillips (thumb) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Louisville on Friday, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports. It was first feared that Phillips would miss 8-to-12 weeks after tearing a ligament in his thumb July 9, but it's now looking like he may even beat the revised six-week timetable. Phillips took batting practice on the field prior to Tuesday's game and is slated to join the team's top minor league affiliate in Louisville. A return early-to-mid next week is at least within the realm of possibility.