Josh Hamilton is optimistic about his troublesome left knee as the 2016 season approaches.

"Honestly, it's the best it has felt in five years," Hamilton said Thursday.

Hamilton had two operations last year, a stem cell injection in February and a cortisone shot two weeks ago. He is now back on the field and doing baseball activities. He is hoping to be ready by the beginning of May.

"It's good. ... It's going real good," Hamilton said.

Hamilton will finish spring training with the Texas Rangers, go with them to Arlington for Opening Day and then return to Surprise to continue his workouts.