Astros' Carlos Correa optimistic he'll return to lineup Thursday

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After testing his sore right hand with swings in the batting cage Wednesday afternoon, shortstop Carlos Correa expressed confidence he would return to the Astros' lineup Thursday.

Correa missed a third consecutive game Wednesday night against the Los Angeles Angels but increased his pre-game activity compared to the previous few days. He took about 25 swings in the indoor batting cage at Minute Maid Park and fielded ground balls at shortstop before the game.

"It felt pretty good," he said of the swings. "I'm feeling really confident for (Thursday) and ready to go."

Correa said he was available to pinch-hit if needed Wednesday night. He added he was still a little sore but that it was nothing he couldn't tolerate.

"I should be in there (Thursday)," he said.

Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa (1) in the dugout with a bruised hand during the third inning of an MLB baseball game at Minute Maid Park, 2017, in Houston. Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa (1) in the dugout with a bruised hand during the third inning of an MLB baseball game at Minute Maid Park, 2017, in Houston. Photo: Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle Photo: Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle Image 1 of / 57 Caption Close Astros' Carlos Correa optimistic he'll return to lineup Thursday 1 / 57 Back to Gallery

Astros manager A.J. Hinch was less committal.

"We'll see," Hinch said. "That obviously means he shows up to the ballpark a little bit better. He's got some questions to answer. Things are pointing in the right direction."

Correa hasn't played since Saturday, when Oakland Athletics righthander Frankie Montas hit him on the hand with a 94 mph fastball in the ninth inning. In his 12 games before the injury he batted just .234 with one extra-base hit - his home run on opening day.