May Bypass Rehab Assignment for Simulated At-Bats

Houston Astros manager Joe Espada indicated Wednesday that star second baseman Jose Altuve, who is recovering from an oblique injury, might avoid a formal minor-league rehab assignment. Instead, the team is considering having Altuve simulate at-bats to prepare for his return to the active roster. This strategic move suggests Altuve is nearing a comeback, as the club looks to integrate him back into the lineup as efficiently as possible while monitoring his recovery progress and health.