Hamels' next step is to work in Minors game

ARLINGTON -- Cole Hamels joined the Phillies for Opening Day on Monday at Globe Life Park, but he will be back to work Tuesday.

Hamels said he plans to pitch in a Minor League game Tuesday at Carpenter Complex in Clearwater, Fla., which will be his second start of the spring since falling behind schedule because of inflammation in his left shoulder. Hamels, who opened the season on the disabled list, figures he will need six starts before he is ready to rejoin the Phillies' rotation.

If he continues on his current schedule, Hamels could rejoin the team in the final week of April.

"I feel normal now," Hamels said. "That's the best thing. I can go to sleep at night and have the understanding I'm not going to wake up sore, as I would if something was wrong."