ANGELS NOTEBOOK: VAUGHN IS READY.

Byline: Fred J. Robledo

Mo Vaughn took batting practice again Sunday. He said if he wasn't on the 15-day disabled list he could have played Sunday against Seattle.

``I could have,'' he said. ``If this was the playoffs, I would play. I'm swinging the bat OK, it's just a matter of waiting. There was no need to rush this (injury), it was just a matter of healing and taking some time. Now I'm pretty much ready to go.''

Vaughn injured his left ankle in his only game as an Angel when he fell on the steps of the Cleveland Indians' dugout at Edison Field on opening night. He plans on making the Angels' six-game road trip to Toronto and Kansas City beginning Tuesday.

When he arrived at the ballpark Sunday, he was still under the impression he would come off the DL in time for Tuesday's game against the Blue Jays. Actually, he comes off the DL on Thursday.

``In my head I've been thinking Tuesday all along,'' said Vaughn. ``It was just wishful thinking.''

The last two weeks have been difficult for the new Angels slugger.

``It has, I mean, you're here to do a job and be there, then this (injury) happens,'' he said. ``All I'm thinking about now is starting the season again and putting this behind me.''

The day after: After a solid effort Saturday, Angels pitcher Ken Hill said he is feeling much better. He worked seven innings, giving up five hits and three earned runs. Hill is learning to pitch without raising his arms over his head on his windup.

``It's just mechanics, that's it,'' Hill said. ``Last night it felt better. It's coming around. It's just a matter of time. The more I get out there, the better I will be.''

Finley to go: Chuck Finley (1-1, 7.30 ERA) will start his third game of the year Tuesday against Toronto. He has given up 10 earned runs in 12 innings over his two previous starts.