Fowler to start Triple-A rehab stint Friday

PHILADELPHIA -- Astros outfielder Dexter Fowler joined Triple-A Oklahoma City on Thursday and took batting practice in preparation for beginning a Minor League rehab assignment Friday for the RedHawks. He's been on the disabled list since June 27 with a strained intercostal muscle.

Fowler was to serve as the designated hitter Friday and will likely play at least two games in the outfield before the Astros would consider activating him, which could come as early as Monday against the Twins in Houston.

"Hopefully we're able to get him back here real soon," manager Bo Porter said.

Fowler, acquired in an offseason trade with the Rockies, is hitting .270 with six homers, 24 RBIs and a .377 on-base percentage in 76 games.

Meanwhile, fellow outfielder Alex Presley played catch on the field and took batting practice in the indoor cage Thursday without any issues. He's been on the disabled list since July 8 with a right oblique strain and hopes to work out on the field in Houston this weekend.

Like Fowler, he'll need a few days on a rehab assignment.

"Hopefully whenever I can go and feel that I can do everything full tilt, then I would imagine that would be the time to go play," Presley said. "But I'm getting close to that point. I can't imagine it would be too much longer."