Josh Hamilton returns to lineup as Angels eye pennant

The Los Angeles Angels clinched their first playoff berth in five years Monday, and they're hoping the return of outfielder Josh Hamilton helps them secure a division title.

Hamilton is in Tuesday's lineup against the Seattle Mariners after missing 11 games with an injured right shoulder. He will serve as the club's designated hitter.

The slugger continues to struggle in Los Angeles, posting hitting rates below his career average for the second straight season. He enters play Tuesday with 10 homers and 21 doubles, his lowest totals since 2009.

Los Angeles hasn't missed a beat in his absence, winning 10 of 11 to reduce its magic number to three.