Matt Shoemaker is unlikely to pitch in the team's final five regular-season games due to a mild left rib-cage strain, but the Los Angeles Angels are hopeful he can take the mound in the playoffs.

Shoemaker played some light catch Monday, the first time he's thrown since suffering the injury against the Seattle Mariners on Sept. 15.

"It's better, but it's still sore," Shoemaker said. "I'm getting into a lot of physical activity, moving around, getting ready to go. There's still no timetable, but I feel very optimistic about getting on a mound again."