"Paul Konerko plans to return to the White Sox's lineup Thursday night but expects to feel discomfort in his left calf for at least another week.

Konerko felt more encouraged Wednesday after taking swings for the first time since getting hit by a pitch on Sunday, as well as running on an underwater treadmill and performing some agility drills.

Konerko, who leads the Sox with a .305 batting average with 25 home runs and 76 RBIs, believes hitting will present a greater challenge than playing first base."