Angels’ Vernon Wells, Howie Kendrick make progress in rehab from injuries; Peter Bourjos to lead off against A’s

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Vernon Wells, on the disabled list since May 10 because of a right groin strain, began light agility drills and some light jogging on Wednesday, and he hopes to graduate to more aggressive drills and some running by the weekend.

“I think I’m in a good place,” Wells said. “I don’t want to say I’m ahead of schedule, but it feels good. I’ll start cranking it up day by day.”

Howie Kendrick, who hasn’t played since suffering a right hamstring injury Thursday in Seattle, did not run Wednesday after running short sprints at about 80% on Tuesday. But Manager Mike Scioscia said Kendrick will attempt to run at something close to full speed on Thursday, after which the Angels will decide whether to place him on the disabled list.

“He feels much better today,” Scioscia said. “The big test will be tomorrow.”

Maicer Izturis is not in Wednesday night’s lineup against the A’s, but Scioscia said the infielder is healthy and will start Thursday’s series finale. Peter Bourjos, who usually bats ninth, will move to the leadoff spot in Izturis’ absence.

Angels starter Ervin Santana has a 12-3 career record and 1.99 earned-run average in 22 career games against Oakland.

The Angels lineup: CF Peter Bourjos, SS Erick Aybar, DH Bobby Abreu, RF Torii Hunter, 3B Alberto Callaspo, 1B Mark Trumbo, C Hank Conger, 2B Alexi Amarista, LF Reggie Willits, P Ervin Santana.

The A’s lineup: CF Coco Crisp, 1B Daric Barton, RF David DeJesus, DH Josh Willingham, LF Ryan Sweeney, C Landon Powell, 2B Mark Ellis, 3B Andy LaRoche, SS Cliff Pennington, P Trevor Cahill.

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-- Mike DiGiovanna