Darin

Erstad

Erstad said he experienced discomfort Friday, one day after the Angels flew here, and he said sitting on plane flights appears to aggravate the hamstring. He could be back in the starting lineup today.

“I’d think the chances of that would be very remote,” GM Bill Stoneman said. Sure Erstad is quite a bit more likely to get hurt while playing center, but it’s the only position at which he’s a real asset. It’s too bad they’re not even looking to consider the possibility.

The team might use Jared Weaver’s money to sign Morales, although they could conceivably ink both. If Morales doesn’t sign soon, it’s he’ll begin showcasing himself by playing in the Dominican Winter League.

It still should probably be taken as a rumor at this point. If signed, Morales likely would open 2005 in the minors. Unless Casey Kotchman is traded, Morales might be viewed as a future DH by the club.

Erstad’s workout regimen will be suspended for 48 hours while the injection takes effect. The hope is that the cortisone will create some progress in a healing process that has been slow. Even if it works, Erstad probably remains at least two weeks away from coming off the disabled list.

Erstad, who has an injured hamstring, hopes to complete a minor league rehab assignment next week. For their part, the Angels haven’t committed to any timetable yet.

Erstad, out since April 19, hopes to rejoin the lineup June 9.

Erstad popped up in all three at-bats as the No. 2 hitter. He could be activated sometime next week.

There is still no timetable for Erstad’s return, but he experienced less swelling after Thursday’s workout than he had when he last tested the hamstring about two weeks ago.

Erstad tried to test the leg yesterday, and was frustrated that he couldn’t push it very far. He’s not likely to play until Tuesday anyway, which would make nine days of inactivity. And it’s doubtful the Angels would then want to bring him back on Toronto’s artificial turf. All signs would indicate DL time so the Angels can add an extra outfielder.