ARLINGTON  (AP)  Injured sluggers Josh Hamilton and Nelson Cruz could be in the same Double-A lineup together by the middle of this week, and closer to rejoining the Texas Rangers.

Cruz is expected to begin a rehabilitation assignment Monday at Double-A Frisco. Hamilton, the reigning AL MVP, could join him as early as Wednesday.

After running bases Sunday, Cruz said he felt better than he did the previous day. Hamilton smiled and said he felt good after taking batting practice again.

Hamilton broke a bone in his upper right arm April 12. Cruz has been out since leaving a game May 3 with a strained right quadriceps.

Cruz will start as the DH in Frisco, then move to the outfield. Hamilton will DH when he gets there.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)