TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — Los Angeles Angels first baseman Kendrys Morales has been cleared to run outdoors, the next step in his recovery from a broken ankle that sidelined him last season.

Manager Mike Scioscia has watched video of Morales and said he “looks great.” Morales will increase his running Monday.

Scioscia is “more optimistic” that Morales, who batted .306 with 34 homers and 108 RBIs in 2009, will be able to fill a role for the club this season, perhaps as a DH in the cleanup spot behind Albert Pujols. Morales was moved off first when the club signed the superstar free agent this winter.

Morales has spent much of the offseason working out in the area. On Sunday, he ran on a non-weight bearing treadmill and did outdoor exercises with a trainer.