Albert Pujols, who is recovering from offseason arthroscopic surgery on his right knee, expects to begin running on the field later this week.

He should begin playing in exhibition games around mid-March and is still in line to play on Opening Day (April 1).

The Angels open the season under National League rules, so Pujols won't be able to serve as the designated hitter.

"There's no need to rush him," manager Mike Scioscia said. "I think if Opening Day was on the horizon, he might feel the need to push it a little bit. He really doesn't need to be into games until probably the second week of March. I anticipate he'll play before then, for him to be ready for the season."