Astros Isaac Paredes Progresses in Rehab, Return This Season Uncertain

Houston Astros third baseman Isaac Paredes has resumed baseball activities, including running and fielding, after suffering a severe right hamstring strain in July. Paredes, who was placed on the 60-day injured list, underwent follow-up imaging with favorable results and has started hitting in batting cages and taking ground balls, although he is not yet at full strength. He has opted for rehabilitation over surgery, aiming to return this season, but both he and Astros manager Joe Espada acknowledge it is too early to predict his comeback. With the Astros holding a three-game lead in the AL West and 23 regular-season games remaining, Paredes's potential return could provide a significant boost, especially given his consistent performance prior to injury, including a .259 batting average, 19 home runs, and 50 RBIs. Despite the uncertainty, Paredes remains optimistic and is focused on day-to-day progress as he continues rehab in Florida. His return timeline remains unclear, but his resumption of running and fielding marks a positive step forward for the team.