Matt Kemp, Juan Rivera prepare for return as Dodger kids hold on

How long can the Dodgers survive with the kiddie brigade?

Since Matt Kemp went on the 15-day disabled list, they have barely missed a beat, going 7-3. Twice they’ve started lineups with only one regular. Every minor leaguer called up has had his moment.

Still, it’s not reasonable to expect the young bucks to keep this up indefinitely, which means the news that both Kemp and Juan Rivera – apparently well ahead of schedule – could return by Tuesday is nothing but welcome.

Kemp and Rivera are scheduled to test their sore hamstrings in rehab appearances for triple-A Albuquerque on Sunday and Monday. The Isotopes, naturally, are promoting their games in Albuquerque.

Kemp is eligible to return Tuesday, and Rivera – whose ruptured hamstring was the more severe injury, is already eligible.

Jerry Hairston Jr., also on the DL with a sore hamstring, is eligible to be activated Friday.

So the regulars should start returning over the next few days, with their loss not as severe as anticipated.

RELATED:

Mark Ellis released from hospital

Left-handed pitching trio is all right for Dodgers

Dodgers making bid to reenter signings of international players?