Appel (shoulder) started a rehab assignment with the Gulf Coast League Phillies on Thursday, Matt Breen of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

EDGE Analysis

Appel has been sidelined since the begging of July with a shoulder strain. The minor-league season has almost ended, so it is unlikely we'll see Appel back at Triple-A Lehigh Valley this season. Since he holds a spot on the Phillies' 40-man roster, there is an outside chance he could get a look in the majors this month if his shoulder is healthy.