SEATTLE -- Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre is preparing for a different work schedule when he returns from the disabled list.
That schedule will likely include regular days off -- especially day games after night games -- and more starts at designated hitter. It's not something that Beltre is thrilled about, but he understands.
"I like to be out there, and I like to compete," Beltre said. "I understand I have to be more careful. It's something I have to get used to. We'll try it for the first 10 days or so, and see what happens."
This is the second time Beltre has been on the DL with a strained left hamstring muscle this season. He said the muscle feels better now than it did when he came off the disabled list the first time.
"That's because I have been on the disabled list longer," Beltre said.
Beltre's return could be as early as Thursday's series finale against the Mariners, but a final decision hasn't been made. Manager Jeff Banister said he'll sit down with Beltre and the medical staff before they make that decision.
"Right now, it is a day-to-day proposition with Adrian," Banister said. "We need to sit down as a staff with Adrian, discuss where he's at, how he feels, how he recovers. Every situation is different. To give you a slam-dunk day ... can't do it."

Isiah Kiner-Falefa has been playing third base lately with Beltre sidelined. He will go back to a utility role, but the Rangers will keep him busy. If Beltre goes to designated hitter for a game, it could mean Shin-Soo Choo and Nomar Mazara together in the outfield with Joey Gallo going back to first base.
Much depends on what Beltre can handle.
"There will be DH days, he will play third base, there will be days off," Banister said. "We'll look at the travel schedule, we'll look at night games after day games, we'll look at his workload within the game."
Beltre had another extended workout on the field on Wednesday afternoon. He took batting practice, fielded ground balls and did some sprinting, but not at full-speed.
"I can't remember the last time I ran full-speed," Beltre said.
Beltre said being activated Thursday is a possibility, but he doesn't know for sure.
"I just work here," Beltre said. "There are a lot of conversations to be had."