Ryan Pressly moves closer to Astros return

PHOTOS: Astros game-by-game Houston Astros relief pitcher Ryan Pressly (55) pitches during the seventh inning of Game 1 of the American League Championship Series at Fenway Park on Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018, in Boston. Browse through the photos to see how the Astros have fared in each game this season. less PHOTOS: Astros game-by-game Houston Astros relief pitcher Ryan Pressly (55) pitches during the seventh inning of Game 1 of the American League Championship Series at Fenway Park on Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018, in ... more Photo: Karen Warren/Staff Photographer Photo: Karen Warren/Staff Photographer Image 1 of / 245 Caption Close Ryan Pressly moves closer to Astros return 1 / 245 Back to Gallery

Astros reliever Ryan Pressly will pitch Friday from the mound for the first time since undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his right knee, moving him closer to a potential return as one of three pitchers on the mend as the regular season winds down.

Pressly underwent surgery Aug. 23 and was projected to be out of action from four to six seeks, and manager A.J. Hinch said he was encouraged by the prospect of the All-Star setup man getting some work from the mound.

"He feels really good. He is throwing really well," Hinch said. "He is pushing us to do more and more things, which is good."

Recommended Video:

Meanwhile, Hinch said righthander Brad Peacock will play catch Friday for the first time since he was sidelined last week by recurring shoulder pain. That will be followed by a throwing program that Hinch said will require a "decent amount of time over the next week."

Hinch had no updates on righthander Collin McHugh, who returned to the injured list last week with ongoing right elbow soreness. He said McHugh will begin a similar throwing program to Peacock's once he begins playing catch again.

GO BEYOND THE GAME: Go inside the breaking news and box scores with insights, detailed analysis and metrics in our Texas Sports Nation newsletter. Subscribe here.