Astros targeting homestand for Springer's return

OAKLAND -- Astros rookie outfielder George Springer, who's been out since July 20 with a strained left quad, is still expected to return to action at some point in the final weeks of the regular season but not until the current road trip is over.

"As soon as possible," general manager Jeff Luhnow said Friday when asked about Springer's return.

The Astros have one final homestand remaining, Sept. 15-21.

Springer, who belted 20 homers in 78 games in his Major League debut, did some running in the outfield at O.co Coliseum and performed some agility drills prior to Friday's game with head athletic trainer Nate Lucero. He's been taking batting practice on the field for quite some time.

"He did run today and felt good and Nate's report was very positive, so we'll see how he feels tomorrow," Luhnow said. "Just keep putting those hurdles in front of him, and if he passes him, we'll get him back out there. I'm hopeful we can get him in one of those games at home."

Interim manager Tom Lawless said Springer will be eased back into action much like outfielder Alex Presley, whose pinch-hit Wednesday was his first game action since straining his oblique July 7.

"I know [George] is probably champing at the bit to play, but with that leg and the way he plays ... ," Lawless said. "He came out today and did some work today. I told him today there's a possibility maybe he could play in the last six games."