Astros manager Joe Espada said that Hunter Brown (shoulder) responded well after his live batting practice and could begin a rehab assignment on Sunday with Double-A Corpus Christi.
Brown’s last start came on March 31, so he’ll likely need several rehab outings before he’s ready to rejoin the Houston rotation. He was diagnosed with a Grade 2 shoulder strain and given a two-month timeline to return. The Astros will surely welcome back their ace once he’s ready, as they enter Friday with the worst ERA in MLB. Brian McTaggart of MLB.com notes that Josh Hader (biceps) is scheduled to pitch in Sunday’s Double-A contest as well.