SEATTLE -- All signs are pointing toward Astros shortstop Carlos Correa leaving the club to begin a Minor League rehab assignment in the next few days.
Correa took batting practice Monday at Safeco Field against a high-velocity pitching machine, as well as going through a routine pregame ritual of fielding ground balls and throwing during batting practice. He's been out since June 25 with back soreness.
"My back feels great," Correa said. "I'm excited about doing my rehab assignment hopefully soon."
Astros manager AJ Hinch is pleased with the strides Correa is making.
"He's getting close to leaving pretty soon [for a rehab stint]," he said. "Maybe over the next couple of days."