Astros still eyeing Tuesday debut for Yulieski Gurriel

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TORONTO - After his scheduled day off Thursday, Cuban infielder Yulieski Gurriel was back in action with Class AA Corpus Christi on Friday. He is scheduled to play for the Hooks again Saturday and maybe one last time Sunday.

Then, the Astros’ hope their $47.5-million man will be ready to make his major league debut.

Columnist's take at HoustonChronicle.com: Next Astros great hope Gurriel gets accustomed to U.S. ball

“We’re still hoping that everything will line up so he can participate on Tuesday when the Cardinals come to Houston,” general manager Jeff Luhnow said Friday.

Gurriel played third base and batted third for Corpus Christi on Friday, his third game since joining the Astros’ Texas League affiliate after a four-game stint with Class A Lancaster. The 32-year-old, who is expected to primarily play third base and designated hitter in the big leagues, is 1 for 10 in Class AA.

Gurriel went 0 for 3 with two strikeouts in the Hooks' win against the Arkansas Travelers on Friday.

Corpus Christi’s homestand ends Sunday. The Astros are off Monday before hosting the Cardinals on Tuesday and Wednesday at Minute Maid Park.