Could Injured Houston Astros Star Rejoin Team Against Angels?

The Houston Astros optioned catcher César Salazar to Triple-A Sugar Land on Thursday, opening the door for the possible return of Michal Brantley.

Brantley has been out since June 26 of last season with a shoulder injury that has kept the veteran All-Star sidelined since that time.

He was originally progressing towards a return in May, even playing in a handful of rehab games with the Sugar Land Space Cowboys, prior to another setback pushing back his return.

However, since that second setback Brantley has been inching closer and closer to returning every single day.

Brantley began hitting in the batting cage along with some light throwing and running on June 8 in Toronto, and has continued to get in time with his teammates both in the cages during batting practice and on the field doing some defensive drills.

Astros General Manager Dana Brown gave an update on Brantley just a couple short weeks ago discussing the potential return of the veteran to the lineup, and it looks like that time may have finally arrived.

"The fact that he's [throwing and catching], those are positive signs," Brown said on Sunday, June 11. "The fact that he's hitting with no discomfort, no pain or anything like that, that's exciting."

Houston skipper Dusty Baker told the media on Tuesday that Brantley is progressing and will travel with the team on the upcoming road trip.

Could he finally suit up and see some playing time this weekend?

The Houston brass has stated that Brantley will likely need another rehab assignment before rejoining the team, but desperate times call for desperate measures.

Then again, this could all be speculation and the only move that may happen is something along the lines of the Astros recalling Brandon Bielak or calling up a prospect for a shot in the big leagues.

One thing is certain: Salazar has been optioned, so a corresponding move is inevitable.

Brantley's return makes the most sense, and if it comes to fruition, it couldn't come at a better time.

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