KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Right-hander Danny Salazar took his first step on an official rehab assignment Sunday when he pitched for the Indians in the Arizona Rookie League.

Salazar, 29, threw 1 2/3 innings and struck out five. The former All-Star last appeared in the big leagues for the Indians on Oct. 9, 2017 when he pitched 1 2/3 innings for the Tribe in Game 4 of the ALDS against the Yankees.

“He pitched well,” said Chris Antonetti, Indians president of baseball operations. “He recovered well today. He’s on track for another bullpen session on Tuesday and then another start.”

Antonetti said Salazar’s fastball was timed at 95 mph to 96 mph.

Just where Salazar’s next start will be is still under discussion. A rehab assignment for a pitcher can last 30 days.

“We’re working through that,” said Antonetti. “Most likely it will be in Arizona for one more (start).”

Salazar could then move to one of the Tribe’s other minor league affiliates. Salazar did not pitch in a game of any kind last year because of a sore right shoulder. He eventually underwent surgery on the shoulder and he’s been recovering, mainly in Goodyear, ever since.

The Indians appear to be leaning toward bringing Salazar back as a starter. It’s been his primary role with the Indians since his big-league debut in 2013. In 108 big-league appearances with the Indians, he’s made 104 starts.

“We’ll take the next few weeks to work toward that,” said Antonetti, when asked if Salazar would start or relieve. “We’re still having conversations around that internally.”

Karinchak update: Hard-throwing right-hander James Karinchak made a big splash early this season at Class AA Akron and Class AAA Columbus, but a pulled hamstring put him on the injured list.

Look for Karinchak to be back pitching after the All-Star break. Karinchak, a ninth-round pick in 2017, has made 13 appearances this year without allowing a run. He’s struck out 32 in 13 combined innings with six saves and three walks.

Get Tribe Insider texts in your phone from Paul Hoynes: Cut through the clutter of social media and communicate directly with the award-winning Indians reporter, just like you would with your friends. It’s just $3.99 a month, which works out to about 13 cents a day. Learn more and sign up here.