Wade took on-field batting practice Friday and is doing all baseball activities including running, manager Joe Espada said. The Astros plan to have Wade run bases “in the next couple of days” as a last step prior to starting a rehab assignment.
“Once he clears that hurdle, we’re going to get him a couple games,” Espada said.
Wade, signed by the Astros on June 4, injured his hamstring in his fourth game with the team and landed on the IL on June 9. Espada initially said it appeared Wade would face a longer recovery, but he evidently has progressed more quickly.
Signed to give the Astros a veteran left-handed bat in the outfield and off the bench, Wade went 4-for-12 with the club before going on the IL.
Infielder Nick Allen also did on-field work Friday as he recovers from a left hamstring strain sustained on June 7. Espada said Allen is “moving along very well” and the Astros will “see what he needs” regarding rehab games.
“Both players are really, really close to joining the club if we need them,” Espada said.