McNamara Set to Rejoin the Team on Saturday

Interim Manager John McNamara will leave Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York today, spend several days at his Nashville, Tenn., home, then rejoin the Angels Saturday.

McNamara, 64, had been hospitalized with a blood clot in his right calf since Aug. 21.

“He’s going to have a couple of days of rest and relaxation, then he’ll be right back here,” said Joe Maddon, who has replaced McNamara as manager.

Maddon’s tenure (he’s now 4-3) has been short and sweet, but he said he will not pursue the job unless encouraged by the club.

“My brief experience has indicated to me that it [managing] is something maybe I can do,” said Maddon, . . . at the right time, in the right situation. Having had this chance, I’ve concluded I can do it.”

“[But] I’ve been with the Angel organization since 1976. I’m an Angel first. Whatever they want me to do, I’ll be happy to do it.”

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Boston coach Tim Johnson said he has not been contacted by the Angels about managing next season, but remains interested in the job. His name is believed to be one of many Angel General Manager Bill Bavasi has compiled.

“I’ve been a bench coach for five years [with Boston and Montreal],” Johnson said. “Felipe Alou [Montreal manager] and Kevin [Kennedy of Boston] allowed me to have a lot of input and they’ve relied on me.

“I feel the time is right. I’m ready to become a big league manager.”

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Left-hander Jim Abbott pitched a complete game for triple-A Vancouver Tuesday, but lost to Las Vegas, 1-0. Abbott gave up one run on seven hits with five strikeouts and three walks in his most impressive performance since being sent to the minors Aug. 14. . . . Reliever Chuck McElroy, on the disabled list with numbness in his left hand, reported a little soreness after throwing in the bullpen Monday.