Josh Hamilton is working out in Arizona alongside guys like Matt Harrison and Martin Perez as the former AL MVP outfielder is preparing to make his return to the Rangers after his bitter exit just a couple of years ago and subsequent curb-kicking by the rival Angels.
So far, the Rangers have been happy with the reports they've gotten on Hamilton's progress as he not only tries to rehab from shoulder surgery but just get back in baseball shape after missing all of spring training with the Angels while he was in Houston working out privately.
"I like what I see from him, especially the eagerness to play," outfield instructor Dwayne Murphy told the Dallas Morning News on Wednesday. "I have to put the reins on him because he wants to do a lot more. That is good."
Hamilton, who is expected to be activated sometime in mid-May after a rehab assignment with Triple-A Round Rock, could possibly make his debut at home against the Kansas City Royals or Cleveland Indians. He said he's pleased with his progress, as well.
"I'm happy with it," the soon-to-be 34-year-old Hamilton told the Morning News of his workouts. "I'm trying to do all the stuff I usually do in spring training, so I can be ready to roll."
Even if Hamilton doesn't get back to his MVP form — he likely won't — he'll still be a boost to an offense that's been the most anemic in baseball through the first month.
