David

Eckstein

Eckstein no longer requires a sling and said he is feeling better. Benji Gil is filling in for him.

Eckstein has missed four games. He will return for the first game after the All-Star break.

Eckstein is hitting .212 since Aug. 1. Alfredo Amezaga replaced him at shortstop. Few players are more likable than Eckstein, but since his stolen bases have declined from 29 in 2001 to 21 to 16 to 13 this season he’s becoming worth less and less in fantasy leagues.

Non-tendering Adam Kennedy and moving Eckstein to second base would also be a very real option, but the Angels could first see just how much trade value Eckstein has. Even though he had a disappointing season, Eckstein’s ability to play shortstop or second base would make him a fit on a lot of teams. The White Sox, Red Sox, Mets, Dodgers and Cubs are among the teams that could be interested.

Eckstein is not 100 percent since coming back from a hamstring injury.

Eckstein is day-to-day.

He will sit out this afternoon against the Twins. Yesterday’s hero, Chone Figgins should get the start at shortstop again today.

''It felt a lot better, I’m very close, but they want to be a little cautious so I don’t aggravate it,’' Eckstein said. He’s day-to-day.

Eckstein ''felt good,’' Wednesday and was able to do his normal stretching exercises and calisthenics and take batting and infield practice.

Eckstein missed yesterday’s game, but he could return today.