Sammy Sosa recovery on track

CHICAGO, June 9 (UPI) -- The Chicago Cubs' Sammy Sosa is clearly on his way to full recovery from the back injury that put him on the disabled list May 16 in San Diego.

On Tuesday he hit seven balls out of the park in his first batting practice session since getting on the DL, the Tribune reported Wednesday.

"I'm happy I'm not handicapped anymore," Sosa said. "I'm 35 again. I have no pain, thank God."

While Sosa appeared in midseason form, club officials said he still has to get his legs back before he's ready to leave the DL.

Chicago could let Sosa be the designated hitter next weekend in Anaheim, but they are proceeding cautiously, so his healing is not cut short.