Erick Aybar working way back into the fold

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Angels Manager Mike Scioscia said starting shortstop Erick Aybar, sidelined most of the spring with arm problems, will get some late-game at-bats as the designated hitter Sunday. And Hideki Matsui, who is being brought along slowly because of chronic knee pain, could play in the outfield for the first time later this week. Scioscia would like to have the option of using Matsui occasionally in the field during the regular season, allowing him to rotate Torii Hunter and Mike Napoli through the designated hitter spot. Matsui did not play in the field last year with the New York Yankees.

Relievers Fernando Rodney and Kevin Jepsen are also scheduled to pitch in today’s game with Seattle, following starter Jered Weaver to the mound. It will be the second Cactus League appearance for each.

Today’s lineup:

3B -- Izturis

RF --- Abreu

CF -- Hunter

DH -- Matsui

1B -- Morales

LF -- Rivera

2B -- Kendrick

C - Mathis

SS -- Patchett

P -- Weaver

-- Kevin Baxter