José Altuve is recovering quickly from an oblique strain. On Saturday, he took batting practice at Daikin Park.
What happened?
Altuve suffered a Grade 2 left oblique strain on May 16. He was placed on the 10-day injured list the following day.
Injury Update
Houston Astros manager Joe Espada said Altuve's recovery is moving faster than expected. Altuve took ground balls and ran the bases on Saturday.
Altuve spent the early part of the week rehabbing at the Astros' facility in Florida. He returned to Houston and ramped up activity.
What comes next?
Espada said Altuve could face live pitching in the next few days. This would likely take place in Houston.
If Altuve responds well to live swings, the Astros might consider eschewing a minor-league rehab assignment. Altuve missed about 3½ weeks due to a left oblique strain in 2023.
Altuve posted a .245/.326/.380 slash line with four home runs in his first 42 games this season. He currently has 2,428 career hits.
Cristian Javier Update
Starter Cristian Javier responded well from his live batting practice on Friday. Javier's next step will be a minor-league rehab start.
Altuve felt this injury was "not as bad" as his previous one. Team officials have cautioned that oblique injuries can be tricky, and the Astros are unlikely to rush Altuve if there is risk of reaggravating the area.
Altuve played in his 2,000th career regular-season game in April. He is 36 years old.
The Astros will check in with Altuve in the next few days to determine the next steps in his recovery.