Mike Scioscia: Josh Hamilton playing through tightness in legs

Josh Hamilton was the Angels’ designated hitter Tuesday, for the second consecutive game and the third time in four games.

Hamilton had not been the DH in consecutive games previously this season. Angels Manager Mike Scioscia said Hamilton had discomfort in his legs and said he expected Hamilton to return to left field on Wednesday.

“He’s had a little tightness we’re trying to get over,” Scioscia said.

Hamilton said he was not injured. He said the plan had been for first baseman Albert Pujols to DH Tuesday but said the coaches asked him to DH after Pujols said he felt fine and could play the field.

Scioscia said the Angels had not planned to play Pujols at DH.

“It was going to be Josh or another bat,” Scioscia said. “Right now, we’ll let Josh do it, so he can freshen up his legs.”

The Angels play on 23 of the first 24 days after the All-Star break.

“This is a big long stretch of games,” Hamilton said. “There might be a few days that Albert needs it.”

Hamilton, 33, said he has adapted to DH duty over the years by learning how to stay warm between at-bats.

“I used to hate it,” he said. “I didn’t know what to do to get ready and prepare.”

Hamilton is batting .297, with five home runs in 50 games.