Updated

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) Josh Hamilton is hoping to be able to pinch-hit for the AL West-leading Texas Rangers by the end of the weekend.

Hamilton said Thursday that all has gone well since arthroscopic surgery Sept. 11 to clean up the meniscus in his left knee. He said he immediately felt better after surgery.

The 2010 AL MVP hopes to be able to pinch-hit again by Sunday, and is still hopeful of playing full games again before the end of the regular season.

Hamilton has had only two pinch-hitting appearances since Sept. 1, when he was activated after being on the 15-day disabled list for inflammation in his left knee.

The outfielder is hitting .257 with six homers and 21 RBIs in 40 games this season for Texas.