Puts in extensive workout Monday Tucker (shin) rejoined the Astros on Monday and completed an extended workout prior to the team's series opener versus the Rays, MLB.com reports. Impact Tucker didn't travel with the team for the first two legs of its road trip, but the Tampa, Fla. native met up with the Astros while they kicked off a three-game series against his hometown squad. The 27-year-old proceeded to turn in a rigorous workout, doing some throwing while also taking part in drills in the outfield that included some short sprints, side-to-side movements and fielding pop flies hit by a fungo bat. Manager Joe Espada came away pleased with how Tucker looked during the workout, but the skipper noted that the outfielder still needs to show more improvement before the Astros are able to map out a rehab assignment for him. Tucker has been on the injured list since June 7 with what general manager Dana Brown has previously described as a deep bruise in his right shin bone, derailing what had been shaping up as a career-best season.
AUGUST 13 • ROTOWIRE