Angels' Hamilton targeting Wednesday return vs. Athletics

How far the Los Angeles Angels advance in this year's postseason could hinge on how much production they can squeeze out of an ailing Josh Hamilton, who is battling chest, rib cage, and shoulder injuries.

So when will he be ready to return to the lineup? 

The slugger told the OC Register he's aiming to return Wednesday vs. the Oakland Athletics, with Friday as his backup plan, so that he can get a few at-bats before the team's first playoff game on Oct. 2.

"It feels better today as far as breathing and stuff," Hamilton said. "Just sore from the shots. Whatever it takes to get well enough to get back and play three or four games before the playoffs."

It's no wonder that Hamilton's sore, seeing as he's received seven cortisone injections - five in his back and two in his chest - in an attempt to get healthy as quickly as possible.

"I'm doing everything I can to get back," Hamilton added. "I have more confidence I'll come in every day feeling a little better."

The Angels have already clinched the American League West, granting manager Mike Scioscia the luxury of being able to rest his starters for the remainder of the regular season.