Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton hasn't played in a game since fracturing his humerus while sliding into home on April 12. He was initially given a 6-8 week timeline, and his recovery has gone very smoothly, to the point at which the end of the road has become clearly visible. As Jeff Wilson writes, Hamilton could begin a brief rehab assignment in the minors in just a few days:

Reigning league MVP Josh Hamilton could start a rehab assignment as early as Wednesday if he continues to progress in his recovery from a broke right humerus (upper arm) bone. He will have a CT scan Wednesday, and will be in the Frisco lineup that night if cleared by Dr. Keith Meister. He will serve as the designated hitter throughout his rehab stint, which will run through at least next Sunday.

If all goes well, Hamilton could return to the Rangers next week, which would be welcome news for a struggling team currently playing without all three of its regular outfielders. Nelson Cruz and Julio Borbon are also currently on the disabled list (although, like Hamilton, Cruz is about to begin a rehab assignment, and should return even sooner).