PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. - Sam Fuld (right hamstring) entered the clubhouse panting on Thursday morning, but he had a smile on his face.

"Feels pretty good," said Fuld after going through an intense outfield workout that involved a lot of running.

Fuld has been out since experiencing tightness in his right hamstring in a March 3 game. Given the fact that much of what Fuld does on a baseball field is predicated by being able to use his legs, the Rays have taken a cautious approach for his return to action.

Rays manager Joe Maddon seemed optimistic about Fuld's progress.

"Sam had a really good workout this morning with [outfield coach George Hendrick]," Maddon said. "We're thinking about getting him in a Minor League game for four at-bats. We're talking about tomorrow, Friday."

The plan would be for Fuld to only hit in the game.