Hamilton (knee) will head to extended spring training Friday to begin playing games, initially as the DH, before a minor-league rehab assignment according to T.R. Sullivan of MLB.com.

EDGE Analysis

Texas wants Hamilton to be able to play five innings in the field in extended spring before starting a formal rehab assignment. He could be back slightly before the current May 15 projection given that schedule, though a lot will be determined once he starts playing.