Angels' Weaver at least a week away from return to rotation

Jered Weaver won't be returning from a left hip injury promptly after the All-Star break.

The Los Angeles Angels right-hander threw a 50-pitch simulated game during an optional workout Thursday at Angel Stadium with no discomfort, and plans to toss one more session early next week before rejoining the starting rotation.

Manager Mike Scioscia is hopeful his veteran starter won't require a rehab start, and will be healthy enough to take the ball at some point during the final weekend of July against the Texas Rangers.

"You don't want him wasting anything," Scioscia said.

Southpaw Andrew Heaney has been filling in admirably in Weaver's absence, compiling a 3-0 record with a 1.32 ERA and 0.82 WHIP in four starts.

Weaver, who is 4-8 with a 4.75 ERA in 15 starts, hasn't pitched since June 20 due to the injury.