Surgery Is Possible for Erstad

CLEVELAND — Within the next two months, Darin Erstad could have surgery to repair the hamstring that has bothered him all season. As specialists across the country review his case, the Angel center fielder was told Friday either surgery or aggressive therapy would be required to combat the chronic tendinitis within his right hamstring.

“The consensus is, rest by itself is not going to get the job done,” Erstad said.

The Angels had hoped a winter of rest would heal the injury. Two days after aggravating it, Erstad met Friday with Dr. John Burgfeld, the Cleveland Browns’ orthopedist. After an MRI examination, Burgfeld told Erstad the hamstring was in no better shape -- and no worse -- than when he originally suffered the injury in April.

He subsequently spent seven weeks on the disabled list. He is hitting .224 since his return, visibly affected by the injury while hitting and running. Angel athletic trainer Ned Bergert said doctors could decide within a few days whether to recommend surgery or one of two forms of therapy, one involving deep massage and the other high-intensity ultrasound.

Erstad said he was told October surgery would allow him to be ready for spring training. He said he believes he could play through therapy, although he could need to manage it with days off, or perhaps with two weeks on the disabled list. So long as he can tolerate discomfort, he said he was told, he could play out the season without risk of further damage.

“I’m not ready to cash in quite yet,” Erstad said.

Said Manager Mike Scioscia: “If it gets in the way of his being able to compete, we would obviously take a different course. The injury has affected his swing, no doubt about it. It doesn’t mean it’s past the point of no return. He’s confident he can go out and still battle.”

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Even with the advantage of name recognition and the experience of speaking before state legislators after the Angels’ World Series victory, Scioscia said he would not join the masses running for governor of California.

But, he said jokingly, “I already addressed the Assembly. I think I’ve done more than the other candidates.”

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A second set of X-rays Friday confirmed a bruise, but no fracture, to the right thumb of catcher Bengie Molina, hit by a foul ball Thursday. The swelling decreased markedly overnight, and Molina said he hoped to return by Monday. Utilityman Shawn Wooten and backup Jose Molina are expected to catch one game each in today’s doubleheader.... Scioscia said third baseman Troy Glaus would be evaluated Monday and could be activated or continue his rehabilitation assignment. ... Rookie Alfredo Amezaga, who must show the ability to make contact and get on base to contend for the shortstop job next year, is 0 for 16 and has yet to reach base.... Joe Saunders, the Angels’ first-round draft pick last year, has been unable to rehabilitate his torn rotator cuff and labrum in time to pitch this year. The Angels hope Saunders, who signed for a $1.825-million bonus, can return for fall instructional league.