Hamilton's knee still sore; exam set for weekend

Darvish progressing well in return from Tommy John surgery

February 19th, 2016

SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton is still experiencing discomfort in his left knee and will be examined by Dr. Keith Meister this weekend.
Hamilton twice had surgery on the knee last year, and he is bothered by inflammation in a capsule behind the knee. Meister's examination will determine Hamilton's level of activity going forward.
Rangers Spring Training info
Rangers general manager Jon Daniels said Hamilton's issues were to be expected.
"Hopefully it's not out of what we expected," Daniels said. "We said this winter it is the reality of where he is at. He is a big man, he has had multiple surgeries, we don't expect it to resolve itself 100 percent."
The Rangers added depth in left field this winter when they acquired James Jones from the Mariners and signed free agent Justin Ruggiano. They also have Ryan Rua and Joey Gallo in camp as well as rookies Lewis Brinson, Nomar Mazara and Ryan Cordell.
There are still a number of free-agent outfielders available, including former Rangers David Murphy, Alex Rios, Marlon Byrd, Drew Stubbs and Will Venable.
"We'll see," Daniels said. "We talked about some guys. Most likely we'll let it play out. We have a lot of talented guys here in camp. If we have to go outside, we can, but nothing is imminent."
Hamilton came to camp early, arriving on Sunday, and has been working out daily at the complex. The first full-squad workout is scheduled for Wednesday.
Other injury updates:
Video: Outlook: Darvish to return as early as May
• Pitcher Yu Darvish, 11 months removed from Tommy John elbow reconstruction surgery, continues to progress well in his throwing program. His throwing right now is confined to long toss, but he will be examined by Meister this weekend and could progress to the front of the mound next week.
• Infielder Jurickson Profar, also in camp early, has been throwing to bases as he continues to recover from his two-year battle with a torn muscle in his right shoulder. He will continue to increase his throwing and participate in drills as his monitored workload permits.
• Pitcher Colby Lewis, who had offseason surgery on his right knee, reported to camp on Thursday and played catch. The Rangers anticipate Lewis being able to throw off a bullpen mound when official workouts for pitchers and catchers begin Friday, but he will still be monitored in conditioning activities.
• Utility infielder Drew Robinson is recovering from offseason surgery on the ring finger on his left hand. He is taking batting practice and fielding ground balls, and the Rangers project that he will be available to be in all drills next Wednesday.
• First baseman Ike Davis' conditioning will be monitored early in camp as he continues his recovery from left hip surgery.