Marisnick set to return to Astros' roster

BOSTON -- The ailing Astros took another step towards getting healthier, as manager A.J. Hinch announced after Saturday's 6-1 loss to the Red Sox that outfielder Jake Marisnick would be activated from the 15-day disabled list and be available Sunday.

Marisnick, who has been out with a strained left hamstring, played three rehab games for Triple-A Fresno, going 2-for-12. He played nine innings Friday night in El Paso and had a three-run triple and a pair of walks, so his leg appears to be in good shape.

"We've seen enough of his rehab. ... He stole a base last night, and [Fresno manager] Tony [DeFrancesco] said he looked really good," Hinch said. "That's enough for me."

To make room for Marisnick, outfielder Domingo Santana was optioned to Triple-A Fresno. Santana hit .256 with two homers and eight RBIs in 14 games. Marisnick is hitting .245 with five homers, 20 RBIs and 11 stolen bases in 62 games for the Astros this year. He began the year as the starting center fielder, but had been splitting time with Colby Rasmus in the games leading up to his injury.

Meanwhile, Rasmus returned to the starting lineup Saturday for the first time in more than a week and went 0-for-3 with three strikeouts. He had spent three days in the hospital last week after getting a skin infection that was the result of a suspected spider bite.