On Saturday, manager Joe Espada announced he had taken eight at-bats in live batting practice in Florida as scheduled, with his next steps to be determined. Espada also noted that Alvarez will travel back to Houston and rejoin the team, which is an encouraging sign.

The star slugger may finally be nearing a return to Houston's lineup. Visit MLB Trade Rumors for more details.

Before the middle contest Saturday of Houston's three-game series with the visiting Baltimore Orioles, Astros manager Joe Espada teased the potential return of slugger Yordan Alvarez, who has been sidelined since May 3 with a fracture in his right hand.