ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Don Baylor's presence is certainly missed in meetings, around the batting cage and just overall throughout the Angels' clubhouse.
The Angels hitting coach has been away from the team since Opening Day when he fractured his right femur while trying to catch the ceremonial pitch from former Angel Vladimir Guerrero.
Baylor has been in contact with the coaching staff and players as he undergoes physical therapy and works his way toward re-joining the club full-time.
"Don's a tough guy and he's anxious to get back," Angels manager Mike Scioscia said before the Angels prepared to take on the A's in Game 2 of their three-game series. "We text a lot and he's in touch with (assistant hitting coach) Dave (Hansen) and (hitting instructor) Paul (Sorrento) on a daily basis. He's still keeping tabs on everything going on."
Scioscia says Baylor will "hopefully" be back with the club when it returns from its next road trip Apr. 28, albeit in a limited role.
"As far as working or being in the dugout, that may take a little more time," Scioscia said.
Don Baylor to keep up active role with Angels
Traveling with the team is likely out of the question as well.
Scioscia says he anticipates Baylor, upon his return, to be in meetings and hanging around the cage for batting practice.
Baylor's return isn't expected to affect Sorrento, the organization's hitting instructor, who joined the team to work with Hansen following Baylor's injury.
"Paul has a huge role here until Don comes back in full force," Scioscia said. "I don't anticipate Don back in full force for a while."
Despite Baylor's absence, the team leads the majors with 23 home runs. The Angels' .245 batting average ranks sixth among American League teams.
