Jul 16, 2008 4:12 PM EST

Outfielder Johnny Damon hopes to return to the Yankees next week as he plans to hit off a tee on Friday, according to The Associated Press.

Damon was placed on the 15-day disabled list with an injured left shoulder after running full steam into the fence on July 4th against Boston.

"Friday could be a big day," Damon said. "It feels a lot better today. It feels much better not doing the drills."

Damon, who is hitting .319, is making his first stay on the DL.

Via ESPN