DAYTON — Drew Stubbs looked a little rusty — but probably was just being cautious with his strained left oblique muscle — in his first few rounds in the batting cage Friday at Fifth Third Field. He laid down a few bunts and pounded some grounders through the infield.

Later, though, after most of the Dayton Dragons had returned to the clubhouse, Stubbs stayed to take a few extra hacks. Then he showed the power that helped land him the starting center fielder job in Cincinnati two years ago, spraying line drives and long fly balls to all parts of the park.

Stubbs, who hasn’t played since June 5, began a three-day rehab assignment in Dayton on Friday. It’s been hard being on the disabled list for the first time in his career, he said, and he felt like he could have played for the Reds in Friday’s 5-4 loss to the Twins.

“The thing I’ve just got to focus on is making sure I feel OK,” Stubbs said. “Regardless of the results, I’ve got to make sure I’m physically OK with doing the job.”

Stubbs played the entire 2007 season with the Dragons, hitting .270 with 12 home runs, 43 RBIs and 23 stolen bases. The roster that season included current Reds Zack Cozart, Todd Frazier and Chris Heisey.

“I have great memories here. It’s great to come back,” Stubbs said. “I just remember the fan support. It was unparalleled at any other place in the league and at various levels, too.”

Stubbs started in center and played five innings Friday. He popped out to the outfield twice. The plan is for him to play seven innings tonight and nine Sunday.