It seems like an eternity since Jimmy Rollins suffered a high ankle sprain against the Mets. That was April 8th, and while it’s been less then a month, and the Phillies are in first place, Rollins is sorely missed.

Well there appears to be light at the end of the tunnel. Rollins took infield practice yesterday, and will head to Clearwater on Sunday for some rehab games before returning to the Phillies lineup.

The Phillies have been very cautious with Rollin’s recovery, and don’t want him back in action until he’s 100%. An ankle sprain can aggravate all season, and Rollins missing additional time now (especially given how the Phillies are winning), is more beneficial then losing the reigning MVP down the stretch.

Rollins will play at least two games for the Threshers, and barring no flare ups, will be back on the field by weeks end. Rollins hopes to be able to play in the Phillies final game against the Diamondback on Thursday, but that still might be too much to ask. But next weekend against in San Francisco, that’s a different story.

“Mother’s Day is coming up,” Rollins said.

For those who don’t know, Rollins is from the Bay Area, and it’s where his parents still reside. There will be a strong Rollin family presence at AT&T Field next Sunday, and Jimmy plans to be leading off.