NewsHamilton plays field, aims to return shortly
Center fielder progressing well in Triple-A rehab assignmentBy Daniel Paulling / MLB.com
07/02/09 10:48 PM ET
ARLINGTON -- Josh Hamilton took the next step in his medical rehabilitation assignment on Thursday, playing an entire game in center field for Triple-A Oklahoma City. Hamilton led off and went 0-for-4, one day after going 1-for-7 for the Redhawks as the designated hitter. He is expected to start in the outfield again on Friday for the final game in the Redhawks' series in Des Moines, Iowa. The date for Hamilton's return to the Rangers is still unknown, but it could come as soon as this weekend against the Rays. Hamilton worked out in Arlington with the Rangers on Tuesday before signing autographs for a few minutes. He then met manager Ron Washington in the dugout, where he told his skipper he'd be back this weekend Hamilton has been sidelined since June 2 with a torn abdominal muscle. He had surgery on June 9. Hamilton is hitting .240 with six home runs and 24 RBIs over 35 games this season.Josh Paulling is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
