--IF Maicer Izturis will begin a minor league injury-rehabilitation assignment with Class AAA Salt Lake on Saturday. 

A trade for a hitter who could add some punch to the Angels' lineup seems more necessary every day. 

Jered Weaver and Felix Hernandez are developing a compelling andcompetitive rivalry in the AL West. 

The Los Angeles Angels struggled down the stretch of the firsthalf of the season. 

Judging by his 0-for-5 performance, Torii Hunter could have usedanother day off after virtually hosting Angel Stadium's All-Starfestivities over the past few days. 

MEDICAL WATCH: --INF Maicer Izturis (left forearm tightness) went on the 15-day disabled list June 16. 

--INF Maicer Izturis took batting practice on the field the past two days. 

The size of the Angels' second-half challenge was apparent Tuesday night. 

A new rule prohibited Jered Weaver from pitching in the All-Stargame. 

After Torii Hunter spent the past 48 hours shaking hands,hosting parties and generally serving as the Angels' unofficialhost of the All-Star game, the Los Angeles outfielder was more thanready to get back to his day job. 

MEDICAL WATCH: --INF Maicer Izturis (left forearm tightness) went on the 15-day disabled list June 16. 

--RHP Matt Palmer began a rehab assignment Tuesday with the Angels' affiliate in the rookie-level Arizona League, throwing two scoreless innings. 

No Angels pitcher in franchise history has ever taken a beating like left-hander Scott Kazmir took in Saturday's 15-1 loss to the Oakland A's. 

ANAHEIM, Calif.